Health and Community Services
April 22, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Kent, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Minister Recognizes National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House today to recognize National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, which is taking place from April 19 to 25. This week provides an important opportunity to highlight an issue that impacts thousands of Canadians each year.

Whether it is a friend, family member, or loved one who is affected, the need for organ and tissue donation will touch many of us in this province throughout our lives. As our population ages, the need for donations is increasing as well.

Health Canada records indicate that approximately 4,500 Canadians wait for organ transplants each year. Unfortunately, the reality is that over 200 of these individuals will die while waiting for a transplant. Despite Canada having some of the most advanced transplant technologies, some of the most highly skilled surgeons, and some of the best equipped transplant hospitals, with only a fraction of Canadians registered to donate, our donation rates remain lower than many countries in the world.

Mr. Speaker, I believe we can do better.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is a strong supporter of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Becoming an organ donor only takes a few minutes, but by doing so we can potentially have a positive impact on the lives of up to 75 people. In fact, we may be saving the lives of up to eight other individuals when we become organ donors.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage everyone in Newfoundland and Labrador to indicate their desire to become an organ donor on their drivers licence applications or renewals. For more information about organ and tissue donation and to receive a donor card residents are encouraged to visit EasternHealth.ca/Give or call toll-free at 1-877-640-1110. The decision to become an organ donor can mean giving the gift of life � the most precious gift you can offer.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2015 04 22                             2:25 p.m.