AN URGENT APPEAL has been issued for blood donors in the wake of Storm Éowyn, with a warning that supplies are very low.

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) said that current supplies were under three days for most blood groups, and asked for donor and public support to replenish the levels.

The service said that recent weather events, including Storm Éowyn, coupled with high levels of respiratory illness had significantly impacted collections and stocks were running critically low as a result.

“In order to avoid putting further pressure on our hospital system, we need over 12,000 donations in the coming days and weeks, to restore the blood supply, and safely support our health service,” Paul McKinney, Director of Donor Services and Logistics, said in a statement.

“In 2024 the IBTS issued the highest number of blood donation units to Irish hospitals in over a decade, at just under 128,500 units. This exceptionally high demand has continued unabated into 2025”.

The service called for new donors, younger donors, donors of all ethnicities and in particular, those of African heritage.

“We are asking people who might never have given blood before, or it’s been a while, to make it their goal to give blood, and the priceless gift of life, to those in our communities and hospitals who need it,” said McKinney.

Donors who receive a text message from us can book an appointment online at www.giveblood.ie or contact the number provided. If you want to become a donor, you can register your interest at www.giveblood.ie or call 1800 731 137.