Enforcement will be essential for sunbed ban to work – Byrne

Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne, has said that strict enforcement will be essential if the new ban on sunbed use for under 18s is to be a success. Deputy Byrne has strongly welcomed the ban, which she said would help protect teenagers from the dangers of tanning radiation.

“Sunbeds shouldn’t make you think of topping up your tan or getting a healthy glow before you holidays; they should make you think of skin cancer. Regular sunbed use can be lethal, and it is particularly dangerous for young people, who may not fully appreciate the perils involved.

“More than 10,000 cases of skin cancer are being diagnosed in Ireland every year, making it our fastest growing type of cancer. By doing a few sessions on sunbeds you are literally risking your life. It’s that serious.

“I have seen how the pressure to look a certain way makes young girls and women in particular completely disregard the dangers associated with sunbed use. I hope this ban for under 18s will send out the message that sunbeds should be treated like cigarettes; they are carcinogenic, and they could kill you.

“Enforcement will be essential if this ban is to be a success. We cannot expect sunbed operators to automatically comply with the new law, especially if a lot of their current business comes from the under 18s.

“I understand the HSE is taking steps to inform sunbed operators of their obligations, and Environment Health Officers will be responsible for enforcing the new laws.”

ENDS