Thomas Pringle
Ceist:213. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Health if he plans to review the current blood donation ban on sexually active gay and bisexual men; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49999/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 13 October 2021
Ceisteanna (213)
Freagraí scríofa
The remit of the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) is to provide a safe, reliable and robust blood service to the Irish health system. A major objective of the IBTS is to ensure that it always has the necessary programmes and procedures in place to protect both the recipients and the donors of blood and blood products. The IBTS constantly keeps all deferral policies under active review, in the light of scientific evidence, emerging infections and international evidence, to ensure the ongoing safety of blood and the products derived from it.
The 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 for acquiring specific blood-borne infections.
The work of the Advisory Committee is the subject of consideration between my Department and the IBTS.