Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 April 2017
623. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Health the process that would be implemented for the families of the deceased to veto organ donation in view of the fact that organ harvesting takes place as quickly as possible following death; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18221/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt present the next-of-kin of organ donors are consulted prior to removing any organ and their express consent for organ donation is sought.
Work on scoping the parameters of legislation for a Human Tissue Bill is currently being undertaken in my Department. It is envisaged that this Bill will provide for an opt-out system of consent for organ donation. Under the proposed system, consent will be deemed unless the person has, while alive, registered his/her wish not to become an organ donor after death. However, it is proposed that, even though consent is deemed, the next-of-kin will in practice always be consulted prior to removing any organ (“soft” opt-out system). The aim is to make organ donation the norm in situations where the opportunity arises.
