Cork City Council and HSE Southwest Launch Free Sunscreen Dispensers in City Parks
Cork City Council, in partnership with the HSE Southwest and the National Cancer Control Programme, has launched a new public health initiative to provide free sunscreen dispensers in four city parks as part of a pilot programme to promote sun safety and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Over the next week, visitors to Marina Park, adjacent to new playground at Holland Park and in the vicinity of Central Hall, Meelick Park, Clashduv Park, and Fitzgerald’s park will have access to free SPF sunscreen, encouraging families and individuals to enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin.
This initiative is part of the Healthy Ireland SunSmart campaign, which promotes five key behaviours to protect against harmful UV rays: Slip on clothing, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a wide-brimmed hat, Seek shade, and Slide on sunglasses.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Fergal Dennehy, welcomed the initiative, saying:
“As someone who has been advised to wear sun protection all year round, I know how vital it is to take sun safety seriously. Whether you're out for a spontaneous walk, or out in the park with family, or simply forgot your sunscreen at home, having free suncream available in public places makes it easier for everyone to make a healthier choice. The Cork City Sun Smart project removes a major barrier by making protection accessible to everyone, but this isn’t just about convenience; it’s a meaningful public health measure that shows Cork is taking sun safety seriously, and for those of us who have to think about this every day, it’s a gesture that shows sun safety is being taken seriously at a city wide level.”
Gabrielle O’Keeffe, Head of Service for Health Wellbeing & Strategy, HSE Southwest, said:
“Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with an average of 12,668 new cases diagnosed each year between 2018 and 2028 (including both melanoma and non-melanoma types). Making sunscreen dispensers available in various settings helps create an environment that supports regular sun-safe behaviour, reducing the risk of skin cancer for everyone.”
Dr Breeda Neville, Specialist in Public Health Medicine, HSE National Cancer Control Programme, added:
“Increasing the availability and accessibility of sun safety protections, such as sunscreen, in a variety of settings can help reduce the risk for skin cancer. Applying sunscreen is part of the SunSmart sun protection behaviours and should be used alongside other protective measures such as clothing and shade. Establishing good sun protection habits early on is important, as behaviours learned at a young age are more likely to be adopted for life. We can all protect our skin and enjoy the outdoors by following the simple Healthy Ireland SunSmart 5 S’s.”