263 organ transplants as a result of organ donations in Ireland in 2024

The HSE’s Organ Donation Transplant Ireland Office (ODTI) is pleased to report that 263 organ transplants took place in 2024, thanks to the selflessness of 84 deceased and 30 living organ donors and their families. 

HSE’s ODTI encourages everyone to talk to loved ones about organ donation to make your intentions known. As we celebrate the lives saved by transplants this year, we also remember that most organ donations can only proceed when another person donates after their death.

William Mills from Mallow in Co Cork who underwent combined kidneys and pancreas transplant in 2022 said:

‘‘My donors organs have helped me, and three other people to live a normal life, that’s an incredible gift that we have been given. Make today the day that you have that conversation with your loved ones about organ donation. One decision to become a donor can save many lives.’’

Number of organ donations and transplants in 2024 (YTD)

Across the three national transplant centres, 175 kidney, 9 heart, 13 lung, 40 liver and 4 pancreas transplants were completed.  This includes kidney transplants from 30 living donors.

Some donated organs do not have a suitable match in Ireland. In the spirit of ensuring the gift of life is passed on, these are offered to other countries where a suitable recipient benefits.

2024

(up to Friday, 27 December 2024)

• Number of Deceased Donors: 84
• Number of Living Donors: 30
• Total: 114

Type of Transplant

• Kidney: 175
• Heart:16
• Lung: 15
• Liver: 53
• Pancreas: 4
• Total: 263

On behalf of ODTI, Dr Catherine Motherway, thanked the donors and their families. She said:

‘‘Each year our organ donors both living and deceased continue to embody the best of humanity by giving the ultimate gift of life.  It is my privilege on behalf of those who work throughout the service with our donors, donor families, transplant recipients and those who awaiting organ transplantation to try to express the gratitude and admiration of us all. The gift of an organ transforms the lives of our recipients and is truly lifesaving. These figures represent so many lives affected. Organ donation is akin to a stone falling in the water with many ripples leading out from that act of kindness. Families healed by transplantation, families I hope also healed somewhat by the act of donation and knowing that they have saved so many. They are all in our thoughts and prayers. Tá siad go léir inár gcuid smaointe agus paidreacha.’’

Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly TD, said:

“Organ donation can transform the lives of recipients and their families. This year 263 lives were changed through the selfless acts of donors and their families.

"I want to thank those donors, their families, and the dedicated staff who made these transplants possible. Because of you other families still have their loved ones with them. Sadly, that is not the case for everyone and some patients die each year while waiting for a transplant. At any time, there are between 500-600 people on the transplant waiting lists.

Next year will see the commencement of the Human Tissue Act 2024. The Act will introduce “deemed consent” with the option for people to opt-out if they would prefer not to donate. The Act will expand pathways for living and altruistic organ donations. These will help increase the donor pool in Ireland, while always fully respecting the wishes of people and their families.

Families will continue to be consulted ahead of donation. That is why it's important that you talk to your loved ones about organ donation and make your intentions known. Having that conversation now can give your loved ones clarity and peace of mind should they find themselves faced with the decision to donate.”