Organ Bill Ready If Scottish Government Does Not Act
Mark Griffin MSP's Bill on Organ Donation could be 'fast-tracked' if the Scottish Government fail to change the law to an 'soft opt-out' system.
The Scottish Parliament's Health and Sport Committee agreed that Mr Griffin can pursue his plans without carrying out a consultation. A previous attempt by former MSP Anne McTaggart, was narrowly defeated in 2016.
Mr Griffin's father, Francis, died in 2007 just days after a heart operation, following a 10-year wait for an organ transplant.
The Scottish Government is carrying out its own consultation on a possible shift to a system of deemed consent, similar to a model that is working effectively in Wales. The consultation is due to end on 14 March 2017.
Mark said:
"Ministers are currently consulting on this issue. If they choose to move towards a soft opt-out model for organ donation, similar to Wales, I will support them in every way.
"However I have made clear that if they do not act, I will pursue legislation in the form of a Members' Bill.
"90% of Scots are in favour of organ donation, but only 43% are registered. Urgent steps must be taken to give those waiting for organs the best chance possible for a fuller, healthier life."
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