A bill that would mean everyone automatically becomes an organ donor unless they opt-out completes its passage in the Oireachtas today.
The human tissue bill will also include new regulations on the removal, donation and use of organs for post-mortem and transplantation.
expected to lead to Increase in organ donations.
Under the new system, a person will only consent to organ donation if he or she does not notify the person before death that they do not wish to donate their organs.
This is a change from the current system, where the decision to donate organs is the responsibility of next of kin.
The Ministry of Health said that while the wishes of the deceased will be central to any decision, it will “continue to consult families as part of a safe and respectful organ donation process”.
Information regarding opt-out registration has not yet been published.
“A meaningful moment”
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly is providing an additional €1.6 million in funding for organ donation and transplant services.
“The passage of this bill is a significant moment for health care in Ireland,” he said.
“This bill honors the generosity of donors and their families, and respects the dignity of the deceased.
“We now turn to the important work of enacting legislation and increasing opportunities for people waiting to donate their organs,” he added.
The bill also amends the Coroners Act and introduces additional provisions regarding “communication and information sharing” with families when a post-mortem is required.
It also features regulations regarding the retention, storage, use, disposal, and return of organs and tissues of the deceased after death.
After passing the Oireachtas, the bill will be sent to President Michael D. Higgins for signature.
