Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

I totally agree with the Senator. The increase in demand is driven in part by the success of the recent investment in expanding the surgical and health system capacity by delivering better access to care for people. To ensure this demand is met, donor attendance figures are up by 10,283 in the year to date. This is an increase of 8.9% on target. There has been an increase. With the increase in donor recruitment drives, some 11,291 first-time donors were recruited in 2023. This number rose to 11,351 in 2024. I will bring up the Senator's concerns. I also want to express my gratitude to all blood donors who turn up, roll up their sleeves and help us maintain the blood supply, particularly following the IBTS's appeal.

I encourage anyone who is able to donate. They can register their interest at giveblood.ie where they will also find clinic allocations, opening hours and all the other details. The IBTS's number is 1800 731137. I will raise the Senator's concerns about the average age of donors being 46 and the number of counties without an upcoming clinic. It definitely something we need to look into.

I assure the Senator that her issues will go back to the Minister for Health. It is such an important service that saves lives. I thank her for raising such a serious issue.