Faroese Parliament to consider genetic carrier screening

The Faroese Parliament will consider a government bill on genetic carrier screening today, KVF reports. From next year, people aged 18 to 45 and the partners of confirmed carriers will be offered tests for certain genetic diseases.

The diseases are fatal, more common in the Faroe Islands than elsewhere and cannot be treated, according to the report.

The bill would make this the first such screening offer to be established by law in the Faroe Islands. It is due to take effect on April 1, 2027.

The 2027 budget proposal earmarks 1.45 million kroner for screening at Klaksvík Hospital. A further 600,000 kroner has already been allocated.

The parliamentary agenda also includes three second readings and five first readings. The session is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.