Chris Bishop

National List MP based in the Hutt Valley

Media statement

8 June 2016

Bishop welcomes organ donation review

Chris Bishop is welcoming the start of consultation on ways to increase New Zealand’s deceased organ donation rates.

Mr Bishop, the National List MP based in the Hutt Valley, currently has a Member’s Bill before Parliament which aims to increase the support provided for live organ donors.

Mr Bishop says he expects the topic will be one which sparks a lot of public interest following feedback he received on his Bill.

“I’ve been talking to people around the country about my Bill which will help live organ donors. People often raise with me the issue of deceased donors, and how we can increase donation rates,” says Mr Bishop.

“So this is a positive step forward and nicely complements the improvements my Bill will make to the regime around live donors.”

The Financial Assistance for Live Organ Donors’ Bill, currently before the Health committee, seeks to increase the rate of live organ donors by increasing the amount of compensation provided to those recovering from a transplant.

“My Bill will increase weekly compensation from the equivalent of the sickness benefit, to 80% of the donors average weekly wage, for up to 12 weeks,” says Mr Bishop.

“The Government has already invested $8 million in support and education initiatives aimed at increasing organ donation. This review continues our support for increasing organ donation rates in New Zealand, and I would encourage all who are interested to make a submission.”

The Financial Assistance for Live Organ Donors Bill is due to be reported back to the House later on this year.

The consultation document follows a Ministry of Health-led review of deceased organ donation rates. The proposals are based on international best practice, local evidence and advice from an expert advisory group.

The consultation document and details on how to make a submission are available on the Ministry of Health website

ENDS

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