John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 61: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her plans to establish an organ transplant authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10531/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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I believe that there is a need for a national approach to the organ transplant programmes in Ireland. In this context, I have agreed with the Health Service Executive, as part of its 2010 Service Plan, that it will establish an organ donation and transplantation unit within its existing national structures and resources. This unit will provide a national focal point for reporting, monitoring and assessing organ donation and transplantation activities. It is appropriate that these functions be carried out at a national level on the basis of regular, comprehensive performance data provided by all the transplant centres. This approach will provide a sound basis for evaluating performance and examining other issues related to transplantation.