Labour calls for SPF in every OPW park
Labour calls for SPF in every OPW park - The Labour Party
Labour’s Senator Laura Harmon has today called on the Government to introduce SPF suncream stations in all Office of Public Works (OPW) parks nationwide, following the success of an initiative led by Labour Councillors in Cork earlier this summer. The Cork pilot saw sunscreen dispensers installed at Marina Park, Fitzgerald Park, Clashduv Park and Meelick Park in June. With a potential heatwave forecast and over 11,000 new cases of skin cancer diagnosed in Ireland each year – a number expected to rise – Senator Harmon is urging Government to act now to make sun protection accessible for all.
Senator Harmon said:
“Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland and the reality is that cases are on the rise. We cannot ignore the public health challenge this presents. Making SPF suncream free and easily accessible in public spaces like our OPW parks is a simple, preventative measure that could save lives.
“In Cork, Labour Councillor Peter Horgan spearheaded the roll-out of suncream stations in local parks earlier this summer, and the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. These stations, located at Marina Park, Fitzgerald Park, Clashduv Park and Meelick Park, have shown that such an initiative is practical, effective, and well-received. We now need to replicate this model nationwide.
“SPF is not cheap, and that can be a barrier for many. By providing it in public parks, we remove that barrier and encourage people to protect themselves when outdoors. We know that prevention is better than cure, we must make SPF available to everyone, regardless of income.
“In the same way that we have defibrillators in public places, or hand sanitiser stations during the pandemic, sunscreen dispensers should be part of our standard public health infrastructure. This is an inexpensive, common-sense measure that could make a real difference.
“With over 11,000 people diagnosed with skin cancer annually – and that number projected to increase – the time for action is now. This is about equity, prevention, and protecting public health.
“I am calling on the Minister for the Office of Public Works to immediately engage with local authorities to roll out SPF stations in every OPW park. We have the model, we know it works, and we know it will save lives. Let’s get it done.”