Push to install sunscreen dispensers in parks because of cancer increase

THE importance of sun protection has become a topic of discussion this summer, following record temperatures and was even raised at July’s SDCC committee meeting by Councillor Murphy, who proposed the installation of sunscreen dispensers in parks around the county.

The Irish Cancer Society has been spreading awareness of skin cancer in Ireland, where approximately 11,500 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year – a number that is set to double by 2040.

Readily available sunscreen in parks around South Dublin would help to combat an increase in this number for both park visitors and those working outside.

In July 2025, Cork City Council installed dispensers in four City Parks, followed by seven principal public parks in areas around Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown in April 2026 as part of a broader public health and prevention initiative developed in association with the Irish Cancer Society.

SDCC stated that it is “in contact with Cork City Council and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Council” to obtain more information on the costs associated with the installations as well as maintenance and reports of vandalism.

“Subject to the outcome of these pilot initiatives, and to assessment of the associated operational and resource implications, the council will give further consideration to the potential introduction of a similar programme in SDCC parks as part of the budget process.”

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme