Dickson Supports Opt-Out Organ Donation System for NI

East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, has spoken out in support of the Organ and Tissue Donation (Deemed Consent) Bill which is going through its consideration stage today in Stormont.

Mr Dickson said: “This legislation will establish a soft opt-out organ donation system for Northern Ireland. Such legislation means that it will be presumed people are willing to donate their organs unless they formally opt-out.

“Surveys have shown that 90% of the population supports organ donation but only 50% have recorded their willingness to donate on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

“Organ transplantation is the only effective treatment available for many patients with organ failure with too many dying on waiting lists each year”.

In addressing concerns around a new opt-out system, Mr Dickson said: “Whilst under the legislation, it will be presumed that everyone is willing to donate their organs, not only will the opt-out system be easily accessible, but family members will continue to be consulted about donation, and safeguards will be put in place around faith considerations.

“This legislation will truly help to save lives, and I am delighted to see it progress through Stormont”.