Ever been caught short without sunscreen?

That’s a dilemma that could soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a new sunscreen dispenser pilot scheme being rolled out across Cork City next week.

From Monday, July 14th, Cork City Council will install free sunscreen dispensers in following locations:

• Marina Park (adjacent to new playground at Holland Park in the vicinity of Central Hall)
• Fitzgerald’s Park (adjacent to the main playground and adjacent to the Sky Garden)
• Clashduv Park (adjacent to the playground/Community Garden)
• Meelick (adjacent to playground)

As Met Éireann issues high temperature warnings for the weekend, the Irish Cancer Society is warning that seven in 10 people say sunscreen is too expensive and one in 10 say they don’t wear it because they can’t afford it.

In its 2026 Pre-Budget Submission, the charity has made a direct appeal to local authorities across the country to allocate funding for free sunscreen dispensers in parks, playgrounds, beaches, and local sunspots.

“Nearly nine out of every 10 cases of skin cancer are caused by UV rays from the sun or sunbeds.” said Kevin O’Hagan, Cancer Prevention Manager Irish Cancer Society.

“Sun safety is vital and that means protecting your skin, wherever you are, home or abroad. With most Irish people having fair skin, this will burn much quicker at soaring temperatures, and this greatly increases the risk of skin cancer.”