Government Launches Public Consultation on Commercial Sunbed Ban

The Government has opened a nationwide consultation on potentially banning commercial sunbed use in Ireland, following compelling evidence linking tanning beds to skin cancer risks. The public has until 3 October to submit their views on the proposed prohibition.

Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor launched the consultation today, marking a significant step towards addressing what health experts describe as preventable harm from a known carcinogen.

The initiative stems from a report by the Institute of Public Health, which recommended banning commercial sunbed use to reduce skin cancer incidence. Skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in Ireland, with sunbed use identified as a significant contributing factor.

A Cross-Departmental Working Group, recently established by Minister Murnane O'Connor, will examine the policy, legal, and public health implications of such a ban. The group plans to study international best practices, including Australia's successful prohibition of commercial sunbed operations.

Minister Murnane O'Connor said:

"This consultation marks an important step in our commitment to protect public health. The evidence is clear: there is no safe level of sunbed use. Despite existing legislation, sunbeds are still being accessed by young people, putting them at serious risk of skin cancer."

She emphasised the urgency of action, stating:

"We must act decisively to prevent avoidable harm. I am encouraging everyone to have their say by participating in this public consultation. This is an important step in our efforts to safeguard the health of our communities, especially our young people, from a known carcinogen."

The consultation seeks input from diverse stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, industry representatives, advocacy groups, and the general public. These submissions will directly inform the Working Group's recommendations to Government later this year.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Mary Horgan reinforced the scientific evidence supporting the initiative. Professor Horgan said:

"The evidence linking sunbed use to skin cancer is unequivocal. This is preventable harm, so we must focus on developing policies that protect people from these products."

She stressed the importance of comprehensive consultation: "The goal is to ensure that any recommendations are grounded in evidence, science, public health priorities, and the lived experiences of people across Ireland. As the results of this public consultation will inform the work of the Cross-Departmental Working Group, it is vital that the public consultation is a thorough and inclusive process that considers the views of all stakeholders."

Members of the public can participate through the official consultation portal or by submitting written responses via email. Additional information about the consultation process is available through a dedicated video explanation from the Department of Health.

The consultation represents a decisive move towards aligning Ireland with countries that have already implemented similar bans, potentially making commercial sunbed use a thing of the past for future generations.