MSP backs donor change
East Kilbride MSP Linda Fabiani has welcomed the decision to introduce an opt-out system of organ and tissue donation.
The decision from the Scottish Government comes after 82 per cent of consultation responses supported legislation being drawn up.
The‘soft’opt-out means that a donation can go ahead if the person has not opted out or told their family they do not wish to donate.
However, families and next of kin would still be able to object.
The SNP MSP said: “The decision to legislate for a soft opt-out system supports the conclusion of Holyrood’s health and sport committee.
“The matter was thoroughly investigated – it’s so important to get this right.
Ms Fabiani continued: “With the help of donors and their families, NHS Scotland has made fantastic progress in recent years, including a 34 per cent increase in the donors this past year alone.
“Scotland now has the highest donor rate in the UK. However, there is always room for improvement and we are determined to do better.
“Moving to an opt-out system is a really important step towards reducing even further the number of people in Scotland waiting for transplants.
“The selfless acts of donors and their families to enable others to live is always selfless and always appreciated.
“Organ and tissue donation saves lives and is one of the greatest gifts a person can give.”