Shane Moynihan (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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821. To ask the Minister for Health the regulations in place with regard to the use of sunbeds, especially by minors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32174/25]

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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The protection of children and those under 18 years of age from the risk of skin damage, in view of their increased risk of developing skin cancer is one of the primary policy objectives of the Public Health (Sunbeds) Act 2014.

Under this legislation, it is an offence for an owner, manager or employee to: sell or hire a sunbed to any person under 18 years of age; permit a person under 18 years of age to use a sunbed on a sunbed premises; sell the use of a sunbed on a sunbed premises to a person under 18 years of age; permit a person under 18 years of age to be in a restricted area except where employed or providing services (e.g. maintenance).

This legislation is enforced by the HSE National Environmental Health Service (NEHS). To verify compliance, HSE/NEHS conducts an annual sunbed inspection programme, including inspections of establishments, mystery shopping, and test purchases. The HSE/NEHS takes action, as appropriate, when non-compliances of the legislation are identified. The primary focus is to address non-compliances through engagement with the sunbed business operator. Fixed Payment Notices may be served for certain offences or legal proceedings instigated, as appropriate.