All business has been impacted massively by the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent UK lockdown. We urge you to address the ongoing closure of tattoo and piercing studios in Northern Ireland.

Tattooists and body piercers are some of the few professionals in Northern Ireland, who have the correct knowledge, training and experience in cross contamination, blood borne pathogens, infection control, PPE and disinfection and sterilization. Medical grade cleaners are used to ensure studios are clean and sterile, personal protection equipment is already worn as part of their working attire.

Licensed studios have to be inspected by local councils Environmental Health Officers, who visit the premises before it can open. They have many thorough checks in regards to not only the studio itself but also to the tattooist/piercer's knowledge. This proves that they are able to safely carry out their job in a hygienic and sterile manner.

Many retailers who have remained open do NOT employ staff who have training or knowledge in these areas. Hairdressers, barbers and beauticians who are due to open on the 6th July, do NOT have any relevant license requirements in regards to these practises. None of these places would be up to the basic standard of a registered studio. These retailers also have a higher turnover of customers/clients than any studio.

Acupuncture, cosmetic piercing, electrolysis and other close contact environments from the Cosmetic Business category are allowed to open on the 6th of July. Tattooists and piercers operate using the same license as these businesses.

Tattooists and piercers pay business rates, rent local premises in their community, they offer support, they contribute to the economy and all have been suffering over the last 3 months due to lack of income. Many rely on their daily wage to provide for their families. A lot have not been eligible for government financial support. They need to work.

Please allow tattoo and piercing studios in Northern Ireland to open safely on the 6th of July along with the rest of the health and beauty sector.

If you feel the same, please sign and encourage others to do the same.