Calls are growing for free sunscreen to be provided in all schools and public buildings to combat the rising rates of skin cancer, a threat expected to worsen with climate change-induced hotter weather.
The urgency stems from the current statistic of over 11,000 new melanoma cases diagnosed annually, with projections indicating a potential doubling of this figure by 2045.
Responding to these concerns, Cork County Council is set to formally request the government, through a letter to Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, to implement a universal sunscreen provision system across local authority offices, libraries, schools, and third-level institutions, mirroring the widespread distribution of hand sanitiser during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The motion, put forward by Fine Gael councillor and healthcare worker Aileen Browne, aims to proactively reduce skin cancer incidence rates, now the most prevalent form of cancer in Ireland.
“The financial argument is just as compelling. Treating advanced melanoma can cost our health service over €122,000 per case. Compare that to just over €4,000 for early-stage treatment. Prevention doesn’t just save lives, it saves resources. It relieves pressure on an already overstretched health system,” Ms Browne stated.
She emphasized the vulnerability of Irish people to skin cancer due to their typically fair complexion.
She further explained:
“This motion supports Action Area One of the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan to improve awareness and promote behaviour change. It aligns with the Healthy Ireland framework and the National Cancer Strategy, both of which call for cross-sectoral collaboration to embed preventive measures in everyday life,” Ms Browne added.
Social Democrats councillor Ann Bambury, a mother of four, highlighted the necessity of such measures in a climate experiencing increasing temperatures, and additionally advocated for the removal of VAT on sunscreen, given its current classification as a cosmetic product.
Independent councillor Ben Dalton-O’Sullivan noted the HSE’s pilot sunscreen dispensing program at Fountainstown beach last year and stated he has urged officials to expand the initiative to all beaches in County Cork this summer, though a response is pending.
County council chief executive Moira Murrell voiced her full support for the initiative, confirming the local authority already provides sunscreen to its outdoor workforce.
In a separate, related effort, the county council is also implementing the provision of free menstrual products at its offices for both staff and public use, following a suggestion from Fianna Fáil councillor Gobnait Moynihan.
Gillian Coughlan, a fellow party member and chair of Cork ETB, stated she has proposed a similar menstrual product initiative in all schools within the region.
