The demand for blood from hospitals is currently so strong that the Irish Blood Transfusion Service is under pressure to maintain their blood stock levels
The IBTS needs 3,000 units of blood a week and as a result is appealing for blood donations in the run up to Christmas.
Anyone in the city can donate at St. Finbarr’s Hospital while there will also be clinics operating in Dunmanway and Clonakilty.
Speaking to RedFM News, Julianne Kelly from the Irish Blood Transfusion Service in Cork says replenishing blood stock is vital
"Our collections at the moment are very good, but unfortunately, the demand from the hospitals is so high that it's going out as quick as it's coming in. We need three thousand units per week to maintain the national blood supply, so we are asking people to really give the gift of life this Christmas. Think about giving up an hour of your time to come forward and donate blood"
