Blood Bikers provide vital service to HSE

The HSE could be saved a small fortune thanks to a bikers’ charity which aims to provide high-speed transfer of blood and other medical materials to and from hospitals.

Blood Bikers South is setting up a recruitment drive in an effort to find 30-plus volunteer motorcyclists who will be on call from 7pm-7am weekdays and all day at the weekends.

Initially, one motorbike will be used by the volunteers who will be based in the Munster area, but as the workload increases further vehicles will be purchased.

Blood Bikers spokesman Seamus Barry said it was hoped volunteer riders and administrators will turn up to a recruitment meeting at Curaheen Park Greyhound Stadium next Tuesday at 8pm.

“We are looking for a minimum of 30 people, so each could volunteer to provide cover for one day a month. But obviously we’d like more because we will have to plan for people being sick or taking holidays,” Mr Barry said.

The charity will provide its own vehicles and fuel free of charge and some runs may be as long as Cork to Dublin and back.

“For example, on a Saturday night, if blood needs to be transferred to Dublin a private courier or taxi to and from Dublin can be expensive. Blood Bike South will transfer the blood for free. It will save the HSE and the taxpayer.

“Although out of our control, it’s our sincere hope that all monies saved will be redirected to those people and services most in need,” Mr Barry said.

The charity is looking for experienced motorcyclists who it will train to the highest standards.

It’s already established a service in the East and West of the country.

It has three motorcycles based in Dublin and a further two in Galway.

“Even so it’s still a relatively new idea in this country. Blood bikes have been in existence in the UK for decades,” he said.

Mr Barry said Blood Bike South is already delighted by the interest and support from people in the Cork region.

“We have garages offering to sponsor servicing, clothing companies offering to supply bike gear and, naturally, bikers offering their riding services. But no charity is cheap to run and fundraising continues for the purchasing of the actual blood bike. All support and sponsorship is most welcome and appreciated,” he said.