The IBTS is urging donors to make a special effort to give blood leading up to and over the Christmas and New Year period.
The service says this year the message is especially important given on-going challenges with donor availability due to the level of illness in the community, with nearly 20% of all appointments being cancelled weekly.
The IBTS is reminding listeners that giving blood is a selfless act for the donor, but a priceless Christmas gift for the patient that receives it.
There's no risk to supplies yet, but the service says over 10,000 appointments are needed to keep the stocks at a healthy level.
For details of Cork clinics click here.