Common Sense Conservative MP Len Webber’s Private Members Bill C-210, allows Canadians to indicate their willingness to become an organ and tissue donor through their tax forms. Bill C-210 was unanimously supported in the House of Commons and the question appeared this past tax season on forms in Ontario and Nunavut.
“This sensible approach was supported by all parties in the House of Commons, and it will save the lives of Canadians who are in desperate need of a life-saving transplant. The overwhelming success of this initiative in Ontario and Nunavut will surely encourage other provinces to participate this coming tax season,” said MP Webber.
When Canadians indicate that they intend to become an organ and tissue donor through their tax form, their contact information is passed along to their provincial and territorial registries so that they can finalize the registration process.
The Canada Revenue Agency has now revealed that this initiative resulted in 2,450,000 Canadians in Ontario and Nunavut indicating that they want to become and organ and tissue donor. This provides hope for the 4,700 Canadians awaiting a life-saving transplant.
“I worked hard to get this common sense bill passed in the House of Commons and it is rewarding to see the work we do in parliament making a difference and saving lives,” said MP Webber. “I have worked for over a decade to improve the lives of Canadians in need of a life-saving transplant, and I could not be happier with the results. I am overwhelmed with the success of this bill and have hope that Canada could be the first nation without a transplant waiting list.”