Vol. 513 No. 1
445 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Health and Children if new national guidelines will be introduced in relation to the carrying out of certain post mortem examinations involving retention of human organs which will incorporate a more stringent consent process from parents or other relatives in relation to discretionary post mortems. [1367/00]
The professional body governing pathology – Faculty of Pathology, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland – are finalising a set of guidelines on this matter which will issue to all pathologists. The faculty has been reviewing current consent arrangements for post mortem examination and, in particular, the retention of tissue for further diagnoses, teaching and research. The faculty has recommended to its fellows that specific consent for retention of tissue for such purposes be sought for all post mortem examinations. The faculty considers that it is essential to be explicit in relation to this issue and the nature and extent of the consent to be given will, therefore, form the basis for its ongoing consideration of the matter.
I am satisfied that the recommendations of the faculty, which promotes and maintains the highest standards of post mortem examinations practice, will guide all pathologists and their staff on this sensitive issue thereby ensuring that the post mortem examination continues to enjoy public support and be conducted in a manner in which the public has confidence.
Pending the issue by the faculty of pathology of these guidelines, my Department has instructed the chief executive officers of hospitals and health boards to ensure that a policy of informed consent by next of kin to the carrying out of a post mortem and the retention of tissue/organs, operates in their agencies.
