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'Incredible gift': This year saw 263 organ transplants

People are being urged to talk to their loved ones about organ donation
People are being urged to talk to their loved ones about organ donation

A total of 263 organ transplants were carried out in Ireland this year as a result of organ donations.

The number is slightly down on last year's figure of 282.

The HSE's Organ Donation Transplant Ireland Office (ODTI) said the transplants were as a result of 84 deceased donors and 30 living donors.

The ODTI encouraged people to talk to their loved ones about organ donation and make their intentions known.

"My donor's organs have helped me and three other people to live a normal life," said William Mills from Mallow, Co Cork.

Mr Mills, who underwent a combined kidney and pancreas transplant in 2022, described the donation as "an incredible gift".

"One decision to become a donor can save many lives," he added.

Across the three national transplant centres there were 175 kidney, 40 liver, 13 lung, nine heart and four pancreas transplants completed.

That figure includes kidney transplants from 30 living donors.

As some donated organs do not have a suitable match in Ireland, they are offered to other countries.

"Each year our organ donors, both living and deceased, continue to embody the best of humanity by giving the ultimate gift of life," said Dr Catherine Motherway of the ODTI.

"It is my privilege on behalf of those who work throughout the service with our donors, donor families, transplant recipients and those who are awaiting organ transplantation to try to express the gratitude and admiration of us all.

"The gift of an organ transforms the lives of our recipients and is truly lifesaving. These figures represent so many lives affected."

Outgoing Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said organ donation can "transform the lives of recipients and their families" and he thanked the donors, their families and healthcare staff.

"Because of you, other families still have their loved ones with them. Sadly, that is not the case for everyone and some patients die each year while waiting for a transplant. At any time, there are between 500-600 people on the transplant waiting lists," he said.

"Next year will see the commencement of the Human Tissue Act 2024. The Act will introduce 'deemed consent' with the option for people to opt-out if they would prefer not to donate. The Act will expand pathways for living and altruistic organ donations. These will help increase the donor pool in Ireland, while always fully respecting the wishes of people and their families.

"Families will continue to be consulted ahead of donation. That is why it's important that you talk to your loved ones about organ donation and make your intentions known. Having that conversation now can give your loved ones clarity and peace of mind should they find themselves faced with the decision to donate."

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'Sustainable progress' needed

The Irish Kidney Association welcomed the publication of the figures, but said it appears that ground is being lost rather than developing additional transplant capacity.

In a statement, its chief executive, Carol Moore said: "If we are to see sustainable progress in the field of organ donation and transplantation, the necessary physical infrastructure in hospitals, including theatre space, beds, information technology, and staff, needs to be in place to underpin progress. Unfortunately, it is evident that this is currently not the case.''

The figures publihsed today show there are 175 kidney transplants carried out this year, compared to 191 in 2023.

The IKA also said it was awaiting the enactment of the Human Tissue Act and welcomed the commencement of an annual potential donor audit, which it says, will allow for the first time, for best practice to be identified and replicated.