FACEBOOK USERS IN Ireland could soon be able to register as organ donors via their profile pages – following in the footsteps of users in other countries.

The social networking site announced yesterday that US and UK users would be able to add their organ donation status to their timelines and share it with family and friends.

And a spokesperson told TheJournal.ie that the scheme could be extended to other countries including Ireland if it was a success.

“This is the initial stage,” she said. “It’s something that we would hope to be a success, that we could then look at expanding.”

Meanwhile the Irish Kidney Association, which distributes organ donation cards in Ireland, said that it was considering approaching Facebook to discuss the possible introduction of the feature.

“I think something like what Facebook are doing there would have huge appeal,” spokesperson Colin White said.

The absolute key to committing to organ donation is that your family is aware of what your issues are. So having it on your Facebook would be brilliant, it does put it out there. Family and friends can see it then.

Earlier this year the IKA launched an iPhone and Android app, Organ Donor eCard, so that smartphone users can digitally register their organ donation preferences.

The next development could be an update to the app allowing users to share the fact that they have downloaded it via social networking sites, Colin White said.