Derek McDowell
Ceist: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]
Written Answers. - Blood Supply.
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.
On behalf of the patients who depend on a blood transfusion I express my sincere gratitude for the response of so many donors to the recent appeal and I hope they will continue to donate.