2 July 2001

PRESS RELEASE

GREEN PARTY CALLS FOR LIFEGUARDS TO DISPENSE SUNCREAM DURING HEATWAVE

The Green Party has urged Local Authorities to require that Lifeguards dispense sun cream during the current sunny weather.

"The danger of contracting skin cancer is increasing as the hole in the Ozone Layer gets larger", stated Ciarán Cuffe of the Green Party today. "It is important that we put the message across that sun bathing is a risky undertaking. Many Irish people have fair skin that is particularly sensitive to sunshine, and should minimise their exposure to sun, especially during the middle of the day.

"It is worth reminding people to wear high factor sun cream, and protective headgear and clothing to minimise risks."

"Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council employs eleven lifeguards, and it would seem sensible that they would take on the issue of 'sun safety' as well as water safety during the swimming season. If they are under-resourced,  then perhaps they and other Councils around the country should employ people on a temporary basis to put this important message across."

"In Australia there are special 'sun screen squads' that carry out this task. I see no reason why we shouldn't follow their example here in Ireland."

ENDS

For further information contact:

Ciarán Cuffe  6183082  or   087 265 2075