Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2004
121 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Transport if it is his intention to introduce a new plastic card formatted driving licence; if, in view of the fact that existing licences contain a provision to become an organ donor, it is his intention to introduce an opt-out organ donation scheme on such licences as is in operation in the majority of EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9315/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 438 of 23 March 2004, which was as follows: The paper format driving licence currently in use contains an optional section where the licence holder may, if they so wish, indicate consent to be an organ donor.
I propose to introduce a plastic card licence, tenders for which are currently being considered by my Department. Consideration will be given as part of development of the card licence system as to whether optional information regarding organ donation might be recorded on the card licence. In the context of organ donation, I consider that it would be more appropriate for a prospective organ donor to positively consent to donation as is currently provided for.
