Our bid to make life-saving difference praised by MSP
POLITICIANS across Holyrood’s parties have welcomed the decision to move to an opt out system for organ donation and praised the Evening Times campaign.
After almost six years of campaigning, petitions, appearances at the Scottish Parliament by Evening Times staff and canvassing support among MSPs the Scottish Government has agreed opt out will increase the number of available donors and save more lives.
Anne McTaggart, former Glasgow MSP, who brought forward a bill on opt out in the last parliament, recognised the Evening Times for starting the campaign.
She said: “I cannot thank the Opt for Life Evening Times campaign enough.
“They were the organisers to initiate the community awareness which in turn raised greater awareness for us all.
She added: “I am ecstatic for all those awaiting transplants, organ donation recipients and their families.
“Today we have made a transforming decision in Scottish politics.”
However she said it could have been done earlier if the Scottish Government backed her Bill.
She added: “It was blocked by party politics. The opportunity was missed by three votes. It would have enabled us to save three lives a day.
Former MSP, Drew Smith who first proposed the Bill added: “People have died waiting for the Scottish Government on this.”
Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Maryhill and Springburn, was Deputy Convenor of the Health Committee when it considered the Evening Times petition.
He said: “Today’s decision to legislate for a soft opt-out system is a triumph for the Opt for Life campaign and supports the conclusion of Holyrood’s Health and Sport Committee when I was deputy convener.
“Moving to an opt out system is a really important step towards reducing even further the number of people in Scotland waiting for transplants.
“We should always keep in mind the tragic circum- stances that give rise to organ donation and forever appreciate the selfless acts of donors and their families to enable others to live. Organ and tissue donation saves lives and is one of the greatest gifts a person can give.”
Duncan McNeill, former Labour MSP, who was the committee convenor, was pleased with the decision.
He said: “Legislation is welcome. We need to ensure that increased donors will lead to increased transplants.”
The Liberal Democrats also welcomed the move.
Alex Cole-Hamilton, health spokesman, said: “Having an opt out system for organ donation will provide a lifeline for hundreds of patients.
“With public support and so many patients in need, I believe that it is time that Scotland had legislation for an opt-out organ donation system.”