20/07/2001

MOBILE UNIT SET TO IMPROVE BLOOD DONATION SERVICE

MINISTER for Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Bairbre de Brún has announced the allocation of funds for a new Mobile Donation Unit for the Blood Transfusion Service in Northern Ireland.

The Mobile Donation Unit will be mounted on a purpose-built articulated lorry with an expanding trailer and contain all the facilities required for blood donation. The Unit will provide a modern, efficient and hygienic environment for donors and improve the efficiency of the Blood Transfusion Service’s operations by allowing sessions in areas where previously there had been no suitable venue. In addition, the unit will reduce the time staff spend setting up and packing away equipment and enable faster response in the event of an emergency.

The Minister said that the health service and everyone within the community were greatly indebted to all those who give blood and acknowledged that their generosity was vital to ensure the supply of blood for our hospitals.

She added: "Tens of thousands of people already give blood at donation sessions that are held in places such as church halls, schools and workplaces. The new Mobile Donation Unit will help make blood donation sessions more accessible to the public and provide improved facilities for donors.”

The unit is expected to come into service early next year. (MB)

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