The father of a West Belfast child awaiting the gift of a new heart has hailed a positive meeting with the NI Secretary of State.
Dáithí Mac Gabhann was born with the rare hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). The Ballymurphy child, along with his parents Máirtín and Seph, have campaigned for organ donation awareness for years, and in June 2023, Dáithí’s Law came into effect.
It brings Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the UK as it meant most adults are now automatically considered potential organ donors, unless they opt out.
On Wednesday, April 10, Dáithí and his dad met Hilary Ben, in what has been described by Máirtín as having gone "really well".
Speaking to Belfast Live, he said: "Our meeting with the Secretary of State went really well. He had a lovely way with Dáithí, and we felt listened to, which is very important when you’re going through something we are. The aim was to secure his support for organ donation going forward — and we achieved that.
"We raised our concerns about the Department of Health pausing public awareness campaigns, and although it’s a devolved issue, he was very interested to hear about it as organ donation is considered a UK-wide issue.
"He showed Dáithí his 25-year-old organ donor card and told us he remembered that incredible day in Westminster when Dáithí’s Law passed — saying he couldn’t recall a more inspirational moment in the House of Commons. That meant a lot. It was a really pleasant meeting. We wanted the Secretary of State to know what’s happening — and more importantly, that we are still fighting hard around the issue of organ donation. He listened, he engaged, and he showed support.
"We are looking forward to seeing how the relationship develops.
"He told Dáithí he remembered him from Westminster and said the day Dáithí’s Law passed was one of the most inspiring he’s seen in the Commons. There was even a bit of craic around football, and Dáithí made sure to ask for WrestleMania to come to the UK or Ireland — so Triple H can expect a letter from Hilary Benn any day now."
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Benn said: "A privilege to meet Dáithí Mac Gabhann and his Dad Máirtín today. What an inspiration they and the whole family are. If you want to help, please talk about organ donation with those you love."
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