Organ donation campaigners Joe Brolly and Shane Finnegan have announced details of a new ‘Life Cycle Challenge’ they are hosting to support and enhance the process of changing the law to an Opt Out system of organ donation in Northern Ireland.

The event, which is open for members of the public to participate, is being supported by political, sporting and civic leaders from all walks of life.  The First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness will lead off the 30 mile Cycle challenge which is taking place in Belfast on May 18th. The campaign conducted by the two St. Brigid’s GAC men has already seen the Stormont Executive commit to reviewing the system which would potentially see a subtle transformation in organ donation where the onus is on people to opt out, with families always having the final say.

Commenting, Joe Brolly said, “Our message is quite simple.  We are calling on all those people who support this proposed legislative change to register their support and, for those that are able, to literally get on their bike and take up our Cycle challenge by visiting www.makelifeyourlegacy.com and come on the journey with us on May 18th.

“We believe that the majority of people in Northern Ireland see organ donation as having a very positive impact on the hundreds of people who are suffering silently on waiting lists.  This proposition requires a very subtle legislative change that would recognise that support and would deliver a sea change in terms of the numbers of people receiving organs, making a profound impact upon the lives of hundreds of people.

"The presumption, in this system, is that a person wishes to donate unless they opt out but crucially the family will always have the final say enshrining the altruism within organ donation - a sacred gift from one family to another."

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman Gavin Robinson, said he felt honoured to host today’s launch and wished the campaign every success. “Belfast City Council has, of course, already shown its support – through a motion put forward by Councillor Kate Mullan – welcoming calls for consultation around the introduction of an opt-out organ donation scheme,” he said.

“Saving the lives of the many seriously ill people in Northern Ireland waiting on organ transplants is an issue all of us feel strongly about. I am delighted to welcome everyone to City Hall today to show our support for this initiative and the Life Cycle awareness  raising event happening in the city next month too”.

There is a limited number of places available for anyone wishing to participate in the Life Cycle Challenge which will include a reception at Harlequins RC / St. Brigid’s GAC in Belfast.  There are also a limited number of specially designed Life Cycle jerseys available to purchase by visiting www.makelifeyourlegacy.com / @lifeyourlegacy.

For further information please call Patrick Finlay or John Megaughin at Aiken PR on 028 90 663000 or e-mail patrick@aikenpr.com