THE NORTH’S lifetime ban on gay men donating blood is to be lifted on today, Thursday, September 1.
The move means men whose last sexual contact with another man was more than 12 months ago will be free to donate blood so long as they meet the other donor criteria.
The change to policy was announced by Health minister Michelle O’Neill in June.
It brings the North into line with England, Scotland and Wales.
Ms O’Neill is lifting the ban in favour of a ‘”one-year deferral system” as is the case in the rest of the UK.
This means that gay and bisexual men can give blood one year after their last sexual contact with another man.
Ms O’Neill said patient safety remained paramount.
“As health minister my first responsibility in this matter is patient safety,” she added.
“Surveillance data from England, Scotland and Wales and survey evidence from across Britain and the north of Ireland have provided assurance that the risk is lower with a one-year deferral.
“My decision is based on the evidence regarding the safety of donated blood.”
The change will be implemented by the Blood Transfusion Service from Thursday.
It means the criteria will be in line with other groups who are deferred from giving blood for 12 months due to infection risks associated with sexual behaviours.
