Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I compliment the Technical Group, in particular Deputy Tom Fleming, on initiating this constructive debate. This is an example of how the Oireachtas can hold constructive discussions when people think outside the box. While I normally visit Croke Park to watch GAA matches, my visit last night was to attend a discussion on organ donation. I was especially struck by the presentation given by Joe Brolly about whom we have heard a great deal recently in which he highlighted the need for to increase efforts to promote the Opt for Life initiative.

I compliment Páraic Duffy, Ard Stiúrthóir of the GAA and Liam O'Neill, its president, on taking on the issue of organ donation. The GAA is involved in every community in the country, all which have been affected by the shortage of organ donations. I was approached recently by a constituent whose name was recently added to the list for a heart transplant and who will have to wait until an appropriate heart becomes available. Without a donation, the lifespan of those waiting for a donation may be shortened. As the former county chairman of Carlow GAA, I urge the organisation to do more to try to educate people about the importance of organ donation.

The proposal to adopt a system of opting out is an important one. The reason many of us do not carry organ donation cards is that we are too lazy to bother. For instance, I have not given one drop of blood, which is a matter I must address. The opt-out clause would help us to increase the number of organ donors within a short period. It is great that a life can be saved through organ donation.

Joe Brolly related a poignant story last night about a person who thanked him for the work he was doing before recounting a case where one individual was able to save the lives of seven different people by donating organs. It is important to communicate the benefits of organ donation to help us make progress in this area.

Another important point made last night was that while the cost of transplantation may appear expensive, that is not the case. For example, a kidney transplant costs €74,000 in addition to a further annual cost of €10,000 per annum for patient care. However, a transplant will save an astronomical amount when one considers the costs of dialysis for a patient for a number of years. This is another example of thinking outside the box. Appropriate care must also be provided for patients.

I compliment the outstanding doctors and consultants in the health system, in particular Dr. David Hickey in Beaumont Hospital, on their work. While this initiative is now coming to the fore, Dr. Hickey informed us last night that he is working in Third World conditions in a prefabricated building in the hospital in which the transplant unit is located. This is not good enough in 2013 and the issue must be addressed. While finances are scarce, it is important not only to introduce legislation, but also to provide infrastructure to follow it up. I am pleased to support the motion and compliment Deputy Tom Fleming again on proposing it.

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