Final preparations underway as Isle of Man moves towards opt-out organ donation system 

Public consultation underway on landmark law

Final preparations are being made as the Isle of Man moves closer to changing the way its organ donation system works.

The Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act - known as Daniel’s Law - has entered a public consultation phase, focusing on the codes of practice and secondary legislation that will support the move to an opt-out model.

Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford emphasised the importance of carefully considering the practical and ethical frameworks behind the system, saying the associated codes of practice must be properly scrutinised.

The legislation received Royal Assent in July 2021 but has since been subject to further development through secondary legislation.

The final codes and supporting measures are expected to be brought before Tynwald this July, with the first annual report to be presented 12 months later.

Director of Public Health Matt Tyrer explained to Christian Jones what the consultation looks to gather:

The law is named in memory of Daniel Boyde, a young local man who became an organ donor following a fatal road accident.

His heart, liver, pancreas and kidneys were donated to four different people - three of whom are still alive today.

His mother, Diane Taylor, has campaigned tirelessly for greater awareness and understanding of organ donation on the Island.

Once the law comes into force, individuals who do not wish to donate their organs will be able to record their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register.