asked the Minister for Health his proposals in relation to the introduction of legislation for organ donations.
97.
Written Answers. - Organ Donations.
96.
asked the Minister for Health if he has any plans to begin a campaign which would increase the awareness among the public for the need for organ donors.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 97 together.
I am not convinced that the introduction of legislation would result in an improvement in the availability of organs for transplant purposes. Some countries in Europe such as Finland, the Netherlands and Turkey have introduced specific legislation while others have decided to rely on voluntary codes of practice. I am satisfied that the present approach by those involved here is working satisfactorily and the rights of donors and relatives are protected. The need for legislation, is however, something which I will keep under regular review.
The Deputy may be aware that I recently attended a conference of European Ministers for Health in Paris which agreed, inter alia, to develop an information policy on organ donation. I am presently examining how such a policy can best be implemented.