In 2007 the IMB initiated a project, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children, to assess the feasibility of the IMB undertaking the role of Competent Authority for cosmetics.   

This project has involved close interaction with the current Competent Authority (the Department of Health and Children), and other stakeholders, as well as gathering information through participation in a number of European meetings relating to cosmetics (the Standing Committee on Cosmetic Products, the Working Group on Cosmetic Products, and the Platform of European Market Surveillance Authorities in Cosmetics (PEMSAC)).  

In early 2010 the project progressed to a stage of formal agreement between the Department of Health and Children and the IMB, to transfer the Competent Authority role for cosmetics to the IMB. The legislation required for this transfer to occur is being prepared by the Department of Health and Children and it is envisaged that this will be finalised during 2010.  

The IMB will then be responsible for the regulation of cosmetics in Ireland and will carry out the functions of the Competent Authority for cosmetics as outlined in the legislation including the maintenance of a notification database of cosmetic product manufacturers, importers and Responsible Persons; establishment of a market surveillance system involving inspection, market sampling and analysis and review of product information files; enforcement of the legislation where necessary; generation of Certificates of Free Sale; and participation in international activities including relevant EU working groups.  

Following the formal agreement, the IMB initiated the integration of cosmetics and the function will be incorporated into the activities of the Compliance Department. Cosmetics will form part of the new Healthcare Products Distribution Section within Compliance which will also incorporate the areas of controlled drugs, good distribution practice and the distribution of medical devices. Nicola Hickie, the Cosmetics Project Officer, is the lead in terms of coordinating the transfer of cosmetics from the Department of Health and Children and the implementation of systems and processes within the IMB to ensure an efficient transfer.  

The IMB, in conjunction with other bodies and agencies, will hold an Information Day for industry outlining the regulatory framework for cosmetics and the role of the IMB in this area. Further details are available here.