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‘Sexual practices exclude gays from donating blood’ – health minister
Sexual practices, rather than sexual preferences, exclude male homosexuals from donating blood, Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia argued this evening.
16 October 2013, 12:00am
Staff Reporter
Staff Reporter
1 min read
Quizzed by Labour MP Deo Debattista, the Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia explained that the Ministry does not foresee a lifting of the blood donation ban for male homosexuals.
"It is immaterial whether a man is homosexual. The rule would still apply to heterosexual males if it transpires that they have been engaging in such practices. Consequently, coupled with their sexual practices, male homosexuals are excluded from donating blood as they form part of 'high risk groups'."
Currently, male homosexuals are forbidden from donating blood consideration in compliance with the European Council's recommendations.
The Minister explained that the EU Council criteria in blood donation can be changed by scientific findings, but as yet, no scientific findings have led to the Ministry relaxing the ban and changing the blood donation criteria for homosexual males.
This stand has irked many, with critics dubbing as 'discriminatory' as it frames each gay man as promiscuous. Moreover, critics have stated that gay men should not be restricted from donating blood as their blood would still be analysed for infections or diseases, thus alleviating fears.
However, following the Minister's response, relaxation of the ban seems to be far from materialising.
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So heterosexuals are not promiscuous? I think those making such rules are very unaware of the promiscuosity of heterosexuals who refuse to get tested regularly for any STD. At least most gay people are very conscious and get tested regularly. This is pure crap and highly discriminatory. Moreover, there are a lot of 'hetero' man who engage in all sorts of sex practices being hetero, bi, gay, etc. This country is not as holy as it is portrayed. Under the cover the situation is quite lusty and devilish.
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No blood test can be absolutely 100% specific or sensitive.
Also we are discriminating against children when they are sent to a childrens ward ? of course we are ! and there is nothing wrong in trating people according to their circumstances.
