Northern Ireland

West Belfast's Dáithí to receive award from Rishi Sunak for 'inspiring' organ donation law campaign

Young Dáithí pictured with parents Mairtin Mac Gabhann Seph Ni Mheallain at Stormont in February.
Young Dáithí pictured with parents Mairtin Mac Gabhann Seph Ni Mheallain at Stormont in February.

THE west Belfast boy behind the successful drive to change organ donation law in the north is to be presented with an award by UK prime minister Rishi Sunak for his "outstanding" efforts.

Dáithí Mac Gabhann, whose family led the Dáithí's Law campaign to bring in opt-out organ donation legislation, is to receive the 'Points of Light' award - an honor given by Number 10 each day in recognition of "people who are making a change in their community".

Six-year-old Dáithí, accompanied by parents Máirtín Mac Gabhann and Seph Ní Mhealláin, will be presented with the award during Mr Sunak's visit to Belfast to accompany US President Joe Biden.

The new law means most adults will automatically be considered potential organ donors unless they opt-out, and the legislation was passed at Westminster earlier this year.

It was unable to be implemented at Stormont due to the DUP's ongoing boycott of power-sharing in protest at the Northern Ireland Protocol.

In a letter to Dáithí, who requires a heart transplant, Mr Sunak wrote: “The bravery and determination you have shown in campaigning to change the law on organ donation in Northern Ireland is truly inspiring.

“With Dáithí's Law you are helping others in your situation to get the life-changing help they need. It is a huge achievement."

The award follows Dáithí being confirmed as the latest recipient of the Freedom of Belfast, placing him alongside fellow holders of the honor including former US President Bill Clinton and singer Van Morrison.