Cork’s free SPF pilot to go nationwide?
Cork’s initiative with free suncream might go nationwide. But first, the new Regional Health Forum South West, held in Cork last week, received cross-party support for expanding the pilot project into Cork county and county Kerry.
Cork city Labour Party Cllr Peter Horgan raised a motion to roll out the free SPF initiative beyond four Cork city parks to promote sun safety and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Cork County Social Democrats Cllr Ann Bambury added: “As a mother of four I know the importance of regular SPF application. I would like to see not just parks, but playgrounds to be equipped with free suncream.”
Visitors to Marina Park, adjacent to the new playground at Holland Park, and in the vicinity of Central Hall, Meelick Park, Clashduv Park, and Fitzgerald’s Park now have access to free SPF sunscreen dispensers, encouraging families and individuals to enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin.
The initiative encourages sun safety behaviours year-round, with increased emphasis on UV protection from April to September.
“Prevention is better than cure,” highlighted Fianna Fáil County Cllr Ann Marie Ahern. “We should be mindful that SPF is not just for summer months. It should be a year-round initiative. Action rather than reaction.”
“The pilot has been a success,” said Priscilla Lynch, Integrated Health Area Manager Cork South and West. “It was positively received and those learnings hopefully will be disseminated across the country.”
The initiative was delivered in collaboration between Cork City Council and HSE South West in 2025, with costs initially shared — the HSE providing funding for the sunboards/dispensers and Cork City Council providing the factor 50 sunscreen.
An evaluation found that providing sunscreen dispenser boards to local and community groups involved in outdoor work and leisure activities is an effective way to raise awareness and protect people from harmful UV exposure.
The National Cancer Control Programme pilot has now concluded, and a report has gone to the Department of Health to review the potential for a national rollout.