Fury over ‘skin cancer tax’ as calls grow to scrap VAT on suncream
The Government are facing calls to remove the VAT from suncream, which has been described as a ‘tax on skin cancer prevention.’
The people of Ireland have been stocking up on suncream in recent weeks amid a spell of particularly hot weather.
Taxed at the standard rate of 23%, a small 200ml bottle can cost up to €20 across some brands.
Pic: Getty Images
A recent survey from the Irish Cancer Society revealed that 70% of people considered suncream to be too expensive in Ireland.
The study led the charity to call for local authorities and the government to make suncream more affordable.
Backing the call is Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín, who stated: ‘Sunscreen is not a luxury item.
Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín. Pic: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie
‘It is a basic health product that families, outdoor workers, children and older people are encouraged to use by public health authorities.’
The Meath West TD detailed that nine out of every ten skin cancers are caused by UV exposure.
‘The current VAT treatment effectively places a tax on skin cancer prevention,’ the TD told Dáil Éireann.
Pic: Getty Images
He went on to note that Ireland had successes in changing EU VAT rules in the past, including for children’s clothing, menstrual products and oral medicine.
‘There is no reason why sun protection products should not be afforded similar treatment,’ Mr Tóibín insisted.
The Aontú leader called on the Government to make the removal of the tax a ‘priority’ during their EU Presidency.
The politician said: ‘At a time when skin cancer diagnoses continue to rise and public health authorities are urging people to protect themselves from harmful UV exposure, governments should be removing barriers to prevention, not increasing them through taxation.’
