'It's not a luxury': Government urged to end 23% VAT on sunscreen

Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín has called on the Irish government to remove the 23% value-added tax (VAT) on sunscreen products, arguing that the tax effectively penalizes efforts to prevent skin cancer. Tóibín, who was diagnosed with melanoma in 2020, described the tax as a barrier to public health and urged the government to leverage its upcoming role as the EU presidency to push for a zero-VAT rate on sunscreen. Tóibín revealed that his diagnosis came after a routine checkup following a seemingly minor injury. He explained that the melanoma was discovered on his scalp by his brother while he bent over to tie his shoes. Initially dismissing the spot as a scratch, Tóibín eventually sought medical attention and was diagnosed with a serious form of skin cancer. His experience has led him to advocate for policy changes that align with public health recommendations. He pointed out that skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in Ireland, with over 11,000 new cases diagnosed annually. According to Tóibín, nine out of every ten skin cancers are linked to ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Despite this, the state continues to impose a 23% VAT on sunscreen, which he argues is both counterproductive and unjust. Tóibín emphasized that sunscreen is not a discretionary purchase but a necessary health measure. Public health authorities recommend its regular use for families, outdoor workers, children, and elderly individuals. He stated that the current VAT structure creates a financial disincentive for people to adopt preventive measures against a disease that is increasingly prevalent. In previous years, Ireland has successfully lobbied for changes to EU VAT regulations, including the removal of VAT on menstrual products and the zero-rating of items such as children’s clothing, oral medications, and solar panels. Tóibín suggested that similar action could be taken regarding sunscreen, particularly for products with SPF30 and higher, which offer greater protection against UV damage. During the next six months, as Ireland holds the EU presidency, Tóibín believes the government has a unique opportunity to rally support among member states for revising the VAT Directive. He stressed that the rising incidence of skin cancer and ongoing public health campaigns advocating UV protection underscore the urgency of addressing the tax burden on sunscreen. However, Tánaiste Simon Harris has previously informed the Dáil that, under current EU VAT law, sunscreen is classified as a cosmetic or toiletry product, making it ineligible for a reduced VAT rate. While the government engaged with the European Commission in 2023, the commission concluded that applying a lower tax rate to sun protection products is not feasible under existing regulations. Despite these legal constraints, Tóibín maintains that the situation warrants further examination. He noted that public sentiment and growing awareness of skin cancer risks could influence future discussions on tax policy. A recent poll questioned whether the cost of sunscreen makes consumers hesitant to buy it, highlighting the potential impact of taxation on consumer behavior. As the debate continues, the focus remains on how best to balance fiscal responsibility with public health priorities. The outcome of discussions during the EU presidency will determine whether Ireland can secure a change in the VAT treatment of sunscreen, potentially offering long-term benefits for both individual health and broader societal well-being.