KILDARE: Naas Women's Shed group seeks a permanent home
The Naas Women’s Shed (NWS) group is seeking a permanent venue in the Naas area as a base for activities, which began in April 2023.
The group has over 150 members and is seeking the support of Kildare Kildare County partly because of the high costs of rent and insurance.
They say that their current base, the Naas GAA centre, is not entirely suitable because of its location on the town’s outskirts.
They see it as necessary to obtain a permanent venue located “in the heart and centre of Naas for those who have no vehicular mode of transport to our current venue.”
A permanent location would also afford NWS an opportunity to provide activities five days a week.
The group has pointed to a number of residential properties which would be suitable and would also have enough parking spaces. And they say that one property could be developed as a community centre also accommodating other community groups who are also looking for permanent and affordable accommodation.
The NWS provides an opportunity for women aged 18 and over to meet new people, socialise as well as to share and learn new crafts and skills..
Current activities include socialising with tea and coffee, card games, singing, book craft, learning or practising Irish, crochet, writing, demonstrations and talks.
The group has undertaken a number of trips and is in the process of setting up a discount scheme with local businesses.
Kildare County Council says a community worker is working closely with the group to build
capacity and to help to find a suitable location.
Cllr Bill Clear said the group has grown substantially. Cllr Carmel Kelly said the community centre in Monread is the only suitable location and Cllr Seamie Moore said this location or McAuley Place are the only locations in Naas. Cllr Fintan Brett suggested the use of the K Leisure centre, off Caragh Road.
“We’ve a huge problem,” he said, noting that there is a lack of community facilities in Naas.