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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Ian Borg, together with a number of employees from the Ministry for Health and other officials, visited the Blood Donation Centre to mark World Blood Donor Day, which was commemorated a few days ago. During the visit, Dr Borg met with the centre’s management and staff, as well as blood donors who were making donations. He also took part in the initiative himself in order to raise further awareness about the importance of blood donation and encourage more people to make this act of solidarity. “I was pleased to meet the management and staff of the Blood Donation Centre, as well as many individuals who were carrying out this noble gesture just a few days after World Blood Donor Day was commemorated. It was also a pleasure for me to gain a better understanding of all the work carried out at this centre, as well as the entire process that follows once a blood donation is received,” said Deputy Prime Minister Borg. He added, “Together with Ministry employees and other officials, we felt that we should mark this day not only by raising awareness, but also through our own participation and by donating blood ourselves. I encourage many others to do the same, particularly young people and individuals who have never donated blood before.” World Blood Donor Day, which is celebrated annually on 14 June, carried this year’s theme, “One Drop of Humanity. Donate Blood. Save Lives”, highlighting the direct impact that every donation can have on the lives of people in need. Monique Debattista, the person in charge and Medical Director within the National Blood Transfusion Service, explained the importance of this day. “This is an important day on which we recognise all blood donors. The day was chosen because it coincides with the birthday of scientist Karl Landsteiner, who discovered the different blood groups,” said Debattista. Activities marking this day also served as an opportunity to encourage more people, particularly eligible young people, to make their first blood donation. At the same time, appreciation was renewed towards the community of regular donors who, through their commitment, help ensure that the country’s blood supply needs continue to be met. Photo: ODPM