A focus group for people of different faiths, faith leaders, and religious organisations will discuss the Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act.
The meeting on May 2, co-hosted by Public Health and the Lord Bishop, will provide an opportunity for faith groups to share their perspectives on the new law.
The legislation introduces an automatic “deemed consent” system, meaning adults will be considered organ donors unless they actively opt out or belong to an excluded group.
This shift from an “opt-in” to an “opt-out” system aims to increase the availability of organs for transplantation, thereby saving more lives.
Additionally, the Act aligns the Isle of Man with UK standards regarding the use, storage, and disposal of human tissue
Organ Donation Act
Public consultation and engagement from different interest groups is a vital part of ensuring the law respects the diverse views of all religious communities and is applied with sensitivity.
Director of Public Health, Matt Tyrer, said: “We want to ensure that the new opt-out organ donation system is as inclusive as possible.
“This focus group will give faith leaders and people of different faiths a chance to discuss the legislation, raise any concerns, and provide feedback.
“We encourage all faith groups to take part in the conversation, as their input is important in shaping how we move forward.
Director of Public Health, Matt Tyrer
“The Codes of Practice and Secondary Legislation are due to be presented to Tynwald in July 2025.”
Focus Groups
The focus group will take place at the Bishops Office – Thie yn Aspick – on Friday, May 2 between 10am and 11:30am.
Faith groups and individuals wishing to attend the session are encouraged to confirm their participation by emailing Peter.Shimmin@gov.im by April 30.
For more information about the Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act visit the Government website.
To complete the open public consultation, visit the Government Consultation Hub.
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