The Irish Blood Transfusion Service needs more platelet donors

However, platelets have the shortest shelf life of all blood components, lasting only 7 days. This means we have a constant need for platelet donors to ensure we meet the needs of these patients.

Why are life saving platelets needed?

Over 24,000 platelet transfusions are needed every year in Ireland. The IBTS need every blood group every single day. Many of Ireland's patients rely on platelets, so it is important supplies are constantly replenished.

Platelets are essential to enable blood to clot properly and are a component of blood.

Patients who do not have enough platelets in their blood are at risk of spontaneous bleeding.

How do I know if I can give platelets?

To find out if you are able to donate platelets take the eligibility quiz on giveblood.ie and fill in the online application form.

There are two platelet clinics in Ireland. One is the National Blood Centre on James Street, Dublin 8. The other is the Munster Regional Transfusion Centre at St Finbarr’s Hospital, Douglas Road, Cork.

Meet one of the platelet donors who donates in Cork:

Kieran Murray is a platelet donor from Cork.

“I am from Douglas and became a platelet donor because I knew some friends and family members who needed platelets or blood over the years. An hour a month can give the gift of life to someone.

“I would encourage people to become a platelet donor.”