Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
747. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health for a breakdown of the total amount spent by her Department on social media, TV, print, and so on, to inform the public of the commencement of the Human Tissue Act 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [73728/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Human Tissue Act 2024 is comprehensive legislation that addresses the donation and transplantation of organs, tissues, and cells, as well as post-mortem practices, anatomical examination, and the public display of bodies following death.
Significantly, the Act enshrines consent as the central principle governing all these sensitive domains. Families will continue to be consulted as part of a safe and respectful organ donation process, and the wishes of the deceased should be central to any decision. Guidelines have been published to assist in understanding this process.
It is important that the changes contained in the Act are brought into operation in a coherent manner. For this reason, the Act was commenced on a phased basis. These changes were subject to extensive consultation during the creation of the legislation and throughout the development of the necessary supporting legislation, guidelines, and other practical arrangements including the HSE’s Relevant Organ Donation Opt-Out Register.
In May 2025, the Department of Health implemented a public awareness campaign to communicate the Act’s implications for the public, provide reassurance, and encourage individuals to seek further information at gov.ie. The campaign was delivered through a wide variety of channels, including television, radio, outdoor advertising, social media, and online platforms.
Please see below for a breakdown of spend per medium:
|
Medium |
Price |
|
TV |
€171,994.07 |
|
Radio |
€117,953.12 |
|
Out of Home |
€64,309.24 |
|
Digital |
€59,933.32 |
|
Search |
€2,989.02 |
|
|
€31,411.62 |
|
Total |
€448,590.39 |
