Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 365: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason persons with haemochromatosis cannot donate blood; the plans there are to review this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25079/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I understand that the Irish Blood Transfusion Service, IBTS, does not currently accept blood donations from people with haemochromatosis. Blood donors must donate on a voluntary basis and a significant reason donations are not taken from people with haemochromatosis is that blood is taken from them as part of the treatment for their condition rather than for the specific purpose of donating. The IBTS is working with the Irish Haemochromatosis Association to identify practicable solutions that would address the concerns of people with haemochromatosis in this regard.