Statement

‘The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland acknowledges organ donation after death as a noble and meritorious act to be encouraged as an expression of generous solidarity. It is a gift and a sign of great love for one’s neighbour.  

However, fundamental to the generous act of organ donation is its voluntary nature and, thus, the requirement for explicit consent. An opt-out system of organ donation may result in organs being taken after death without the deceased having previously given explicit consent.  

Individuals should take great care to be clear about whether they would like to donate their organs when they die. Their intentions should be reflected on the organ donation register and made known to relatives.’