Members of a Belfast City Council committee have agreed to write to the Health Minister to seek improved regulation of aesthetic cosmetic procedures in Northern Ireland.
The request will also ask for the introduction of a licensing scheme for non-surgical cosmetic procedures including botox and fillers.
All 11 Councils have been urged to write to the Health Minister by the Northern Ireland Local Authority Health and Safety Liaison Group, a subgroup of Environmental Health NI.
Councillor Ross McMullan, chair of Council’s People and Communities Committee, said:
“As the popularity of cosmetic and non-surgical procedures in Northern Ireland continues to rise it is paramount that all practitioners are able to provide evidence of their experience and the appropriate training records to their clients.
“The existing powers available to our environmental health staff are significantly limited compared to their counterparts in England, and the legislation is no longer fit-for-purpose.
“Members agreed to write to the Health Minister asking for better regulation of this growing industry to protect the health and safety of our residents, and give them the confidence that any procedures are being carried out by suitably qualified people.”
In England, it is illegal to administer botox or fillers for cosmetic purposes to someone under the age of 18, but no such law exists in Northern Ireland.
The UK Government recently confirmed its intention to introduce a licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures to better regulate the cosmetic industry in England through an amendment to the Health and Care Bill.
The licensing scheme in England will introduce consistent standards that individuals carrying out non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as lip fillers and botox must meet, as well as hygiene and safety standards for premises.
Committee members also agreed to write to the Health Minister seeking improved regulations of wellness centres, with a focus on regulating those offering fertility treatments.
The decision of the committee is subject to ratification at the next full meeting of Council, in October.