New blood donors are being encouraged to come forward. However, the service said it had little more than two days’ supply of O-positive blood, the lowest level recorded this year, after the long weekend and just over three days’ supply of other key types. IBTS director of production and hospital services Barry Doyle said demand for blood from hospitals has been high, particularly during March. In response to the shortage, the IBTS has added five clinics across the country for this Sunday. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment, which can be booked online or via the freephone number 1800-731137.

Source: The Irish Times April 07, 2026 17:27 UTC