Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

700. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to initiate an awareness campaign for organ donation due to the alarming reduction in organ donors; his legislative plans whereby all citizens would have the choice to opt out of organ donation where consent is assumed if no preference for opting out has been expressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1723/15]

Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

707. To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the organ donation process with reference to the proposals for a new system based on presumed consent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1751/15]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 700 and 707 together.

The HSE's Organ Donation and Transplant Ireland (ODTI) has convened a working group to progress a strategy for public awareness of the importance of organ donation and the huge benefits of organ transplantation for individuals and their families. The group includes representatives of the HSE, the Irish Kidney Association, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, the Intensive Care Society of Ireland and my Department. Much of the emphasis in relation to awareness is on encouraging people to discuss organ donation with their loved ones so that informed decisions, to the benefit of all, can be made if the unfortunate circumstances of potential donation ever arise.

In March I will launch Organ Donor Awareness Week which is organised by the Irish Kidney Association and part-funded by my Department. Many events will take place that week across the country to encourage organ donation.

My Department is currently developing the Heads of a Human Tissue Bill that will include the establishment of a legal framework in relation to the donation of organs for transplantation. A register of those who do not wish to become organ donors after death is envisaged in the context of the introduction of an opt-out system of consent. However, no organs will be taken without the agreement of the next-of-kin.

There will always be fluctuations in the number of organs donated from deceased donors on an annual basis but I am working to ensure that the necessary steps are being taken to encourage donation where the opportunity arises.