Assembly Committee wants to hear public views on presumed consent for organ donation.
The Health, Wellbeing and Local Government Committee will hold its next meeting in the Welsh Assembly Government Office, Rhydycar, Merthyr Tydfil on Wednesday May 7th.
The Committee will take evidence for its inquiry into the potential for making changes to the way body organs are donated in Wales. The Welsh Kidney Patients Association will give its 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. 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 the Welsh Assembly Government Office in Rhydycar, Merthyr on 7 May from 9:00am until 11:00 am. Members of the public will be able to gain entry from 8:45 am. 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.
Online discussion forum>>
Further information about the Committee and its inquiry>>