Press Release

19/05/2010

Organ Transplantations - historical success achieved in quality and safety of transplantation process in Europe. Miroslav Mikolášik MEP

The European Parliament today adopted, with an overwhelming majority, the Report by Miroslav Mikolášik MEP on the standards of quality and safety of human organs intended for transplantation. "This is an important milestone in the history and success of transplantations. I welcome the smooth adoption of the Directive and Action Plan. By setting high standards for quality and safety of the transplantation process, we can help thousands of patients throughout the EU", said Rapporteur Miroslav Mikolášik.

The Rapporteur particularly expressed satisfaction with the excellent results on the issue of protection of donors and recipients through the principle of altruism – voluntary and unpaid donation. These principles governing organ donation significantly aim to prevent any commercialisation of human organs as well as illegal organ trafficking. "The highest possible protection of living donors must be ensured. We were not willing to compromise on this issue. The principle of non-commercialisation of the human body and its parts as such is also fixed in the Charter of Fundamental Rights," added Mikolášik. Agreement was also reached in the question of traceability of organs from donor to the recipient and vice-versa, which represents one of the major safety concerns with respect to the point that data should be accessible only to competent persons.

"Frameworks for quality and safety will be established in all Member States to cover all stages of the chain from donation to transplantation and they will be encouraged on better cooperation and exchange of organs among themselves", Mikolášik added. He particularly welcomed the promotion of a transplant coordinator or coordination team and specific training programmes for healthcare personnel involved which have proved to be of great importance.

The Directive will enter into force later this year and Member States will have to transpose it within two years and subsequently report on the progress achieved.

For further information:
Miroslav Mikolášik MEP, Tel: +32-2-2845289
Atilla Agárdi, EPP Group Press & Communications Service, Tel: +32-475-750272

Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.