Harney seeks total ban on sunbeds in cancer battle

THE use of sunbeds may be banned in a bid to tackle growing levels of skin cancer.

Amid consultation on tough laws potentially banning youngsters from tanning shops, Health Minister Mary Harney said she has asked officials to explore the possibility of completely outlawing the industry.

“I would personally like to ban sunbeds for everybody,” said the minister. “It’s a no-brainer – we know the huge level of skin cancer in Ireland, we know sunbeds are dangerous and hugely contributing to people developing skin cancer.”