Derek McDowell
Question:70 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Health and Children the current state of the blood supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2213/98]
Vol. 486 No. 2
70 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Health and Children the current state of the blood supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2213/98]
Approximately 3,000 blood donations are required each week to maintain blood supplies to hospitals. This level of supply is currently being maintained. There are, therefore, at present sufficient blood stocks available at hospitals and the Blood Transfusion Service Board to meet hospital requirements.
Over the Christmas period the BTSB experienced difficulty in securing adequate supplies of blood, particularly O negative. In response, a major national appeal for donors was launched by the BTSB in an effort to improve blood stock levels. Additional donor clinics were also provided to facilitate donors. These measures were successful and between 8 and 23 January the total number of donations was 9,433, including 2,810 rhesus negative units. It was particularly encouraging to note the significant number of new donors who presented for donations following the public appeal.