Free sunscreen dispensers to be made available in some Dublin parks this summer
Free sunscreen will be made available to the public across some Dublin parks this summer to help promote sun safety and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) has announced that the SPF dispensers will be installed in seven public parks in the county.
The initiative will be introduced in Marlay Park, Blackrock Park, Cabinteely Park, People’s Park, Killiney Hill Park, Fernhill Park and Shanganagh Park.
“These dispensers will help normalise sun safety and I’d encourage everyone to use them as part of a wider approach: seek shade, cover up, and reapply sunscreen regularly,” said Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach for DLRCC.
“This initiative is about community wellbeing and prevention. Whether you’re bringing children to the playground, meeting friends for a walk, or spending an afternoon in the park, sun protection matters in Ireland too—even on bright, breezy days.”
Nearly nine in 10 cases of skin cancer are caused by UV rays from the sun or the use of sunbeds, according to Cancer Prevention Officer at the Irish Cancer Society, Kevin O’Hagan.
“Prevention is vital. We also know cost can be a real barrier—many people say sunscreen is too expensive,” said Mr O’Hagan.
"That’s why initiatives like this, which make sunscreen free and accessible in everyday outdoor settings, are so important.”
The dispensers are part of the council’s push to make it easier for park users – particularly families, outdoor workers and children – to follow sun protection guidelines in the summer months.
The initiative aims to help people follow sun safety guidelines even if they run out of sunscreen.
“Our parks are some of the most-used public spaces in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, particularly during the summer months,” said Frank Curran, Chief Executive at DLRCC.
"By installing free sunscreen dispensers in our main parks we’re making it that bit easier for people to protect themselves especially when they’ve forgotten sunscreen or run out.
“It’s a simple, practical measure that supports healthier choices for everyone enjoying the outdoors.”
Using sunscreen is one part of a broader approach to sun safety, said a spokesperson from the council.
“The Council is encouraging everyone spending time outdoors to take simple precautions such as covering up, wearing a hat and sunglasses, seeking shade during the middle of the day, and reapplying sunscreen regularly especially after sweating or towel-drying,” they added.