Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2021
809. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce individual risk assessments for blood donations as per the policy in the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52104/21]
View answerThe Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) established an independent Advisory Committee for Social Behaviours Review to review the evidence base for donor selection, deferral and exclusion in Ireland in relation to social behaviours that may increase the risk of acquiring specific blood-borne infections.
The IBTS has advised my Department that the Advisory Committee has completed its work and submitted its recommendations to the IBTS Medical and Scientific Committee and IBTS Board. My Department has not yet received a copy of the Advisory Committee's Report. However, the work of the Advisory Committee is the subject of consideration between my Department and the IBTS and a meeting will shortly be arranged to discuss the detail of the Report.
