asked the Minister for Health if he will implement a system of required request to families or next-of-kin for vital organs in all hospitals before life support machines are turned off; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers - Donor Organs for Transplants.
17.
I am not convinced that the introduction of a system as suggested by the Deputy would result in an improvement in the procurement of organs for transplant purposes. There is now a greater awareness both among the hospital staff and the general public of the need for donor organs. An approach to relatives requires a great deal of sensitivity and as not all patients on life-support machines are suitable as donors the question of requesting vital organs from the next of kin is best left to the discretion of the medical staff.