09.09.2015
People from across Scotland are today being asked for their view on proposed legislation which would change the consent process for the transplantation of organs.
The legislation, if passed, would create a soft opt-out system which would effectively mean that organs and tissue would be available for transplant unless there is a decision to the contrary.
The Health and Sport Committee is currently scrutinising the Transplantation (Authorisation of removal of organs) etc. (Scotland) Bill and the evidence they receive from this call for views will inform their work on the issue.
Members of the public are being asked to give their view through the Committee’s online survey or by writing to the Committee.
Convener of the Committee Duncan McNeil MSP said:
“I’m sure everyone would agree that people dying whilst waiting on a transplant is such a tragic waste of life. Organ donation has transformed people’s lives and the lives of their families.
“But of course for someone to receive good news another family has had to go through a devastating experience so these conversations are never easy or straight forward.
“But it is the job of this Committee to hear from the experts, gather evidence and to scrutinise how these proposals would change the current system.”
Deputy Convener of the Committee Bob Doris MSP said:
“As a Committee we want to hear from as many people as possible and particularly people who have had personal experience of the current transplant system.
“This is important for the Committee as these views will contribute directly to our work. It will help us as MSPs in coming to conclusions on these proposals and if we as a Committee can support the bill as it progresses through the parliamentary scrutiny process.”
The Committee has issued a call for evidence and would like you to answer the following questions:
- Do you support the Bill?
- Do you think the Bill (if enacted) would achieve its aim of increasing the number or organs and tissue made available for transplantation in Scotland? Please provide an explanation for your answer.
- Do you support the proposal of appointing a proxy? Please provide an explanation for your answer.
- Do you have any comments on the role of the “authorised investigating persons” as provided for in the Bill?
- Is there anything in the Bill you would change? If yes, please provide more details.
Background