Dáithí Mac Gabhann to be awarded Freedom of Belfast
Dáithí’s organ donation law is due to come into effect in June.
Last updated 28th Mar 2023
Dáithí Mac Gabhann is going to be awarded the Freedom of Belfast, according to the British Heart Foundation.
The six year old's family successfully campaigned for a change in the law to increase the number of organ donors in Northern Ireland.
Dáithí’s law is due to come into effect on the 1st of June.
It’ll mean all adults in Northern Ireland will be considered potential organ donors unless they choose to opt out or are in an excluded group.
Head of British Heart Foundation NI Fearghal McKinney said, "News that six year-old Dáithí MacGabhann is set to be awarded the freedom of the city of Belfast is fantastic and thoroughly well deserved.”
"Dáithí and his family are an inspiration to all, particularly those in the organ donation community and all those waiting on the gift of life. “
"Dáithí's campaign and the historic legislation he has secured have brought hope to so many.”
"This is a fitting recognition of the excellent efforts of Dáithí and his family."
Previous recipients of the honour have included athlete Mary Peters, actor Kenneth Branagh, and former Prime Minister Winston Churchill.