Assembly Committee wants to hear public views on presumed consent for organ donation at meeting in Rhyl.
The Health, Wellbeing and Local Government Committee will hold its next meeting at Rhyl Town Hall on Thursday June 5th.
The Committee will take evidence for its inquiry into the potential for making changes to the way body organs are donated in Wales. Dr Abdul Hammad of the Nephrology and Transplant Directorate at the Royal Liverpool Hospital will give his views but Members also want to hear the opinions of the public during an open microphone session.
The Committee is looking at whether a system of Presumed Consent can or should be introduced in Wales. Organ donation can be a sensitive subject, and the Committee wants to find out the views of as many people in Wales as possible.
The Committee is also undertaking an online poll and discussion forum on the subject. The results will form part of the evidence on which the Committee bases its final conclusions.
The Committee Chair, Jonathan Morgan AM said: “There is little doubt that transplant surgery can save lives and improve the quality of lives of those who benefit from it. There is also a pressing shortage of donors.
“However, we need to make sure that the views of the public are heard, particularly those in North Wales where services such as transplants are provided by hospitals in England. Any change to the law on organ donation must be fully thought through and take account of public concerns.
“We would like to hear from as many people from as many parts of Wales as possible, , which is why we are meeting in several different towns and cities across the country. I would urge everybody to come along to have your say on a matter that will affect everybody in the whole country.”
The meeting takes place at Rhyl Town Hall, Wellington Road, Rhyl on 5 June from 10:30am until 12:30pm. Members of the public will be able to gain entry from 10:15am. Tea and coffee will be available.
It is not necessary to book in advance, but if you wish to be sure of a seat, please contact the Booking Line on 0845 010 5500 or e-mail assembly.bookings@wales.gsi.gov.uk.
Further information about the Committee and its inquiry