Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I will speak to amendments Nos. 10 and 15 in the group. I agree we have been requested to consider future-proofing the legislation by providing for the possibility of a sharing or swap scheme. I am not qualified, and I do not think any of us is, to express a view on whether that is wise. On the face of it, however, it would seem to make sense, notwithstanding that we have a relatively small, albeit growing, population, that we may get to a point where we can have a sharing or swapping scheme. The current wording would not allow for swaps as the person who donates an organ is not solely concerned with the benefit of the recipient. Section 21(1)(c) and section 23(1)(c) will still ensure that there is not financial gain. The preclusion of financial gain is contained in some of the amendments but I understand financial gain is ruled out by the legislation in any event. The Irish Kidney Association is of the view that while the population is relatively small, as I said, it would be a good idea to plan for the future and consider the possibility of having such a scheme in future without the need for primary legislation.

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