Mr. Philip Watts:

In the past year in the UK, there has been a fantastic increase in organ donation and transplant rates. The British Medical Association, BMA, released a press release two days ago to the effect that this improvement was due to the infrastructural changes. It believes that the rates would be even better if the UK moved to a soft out situation. It is a crucial part of a package.

I agree with Deputy Kelleher, in that the tone of the debate is important. We respect the Irish Kidney Association's right to differ, but the debate's tone is crucial in terms of keeping the public on board.

The costings issue is vital. In these straitened economic times and given the strain on our health system, measures must be costed, for example, donor co-ordinators and websites. However, if these are not put in place, there is a danger that this move could be botched. The Minister must accept the message that he cannot introduce a soft opt-out without the rest of the package of measures.

I thank the two patient representatives and Mr. Brolly. What he did personally was exceptional, but his campaign has brought this issue into the public domain. It has been important.