Limerick Men’s Sheds to secure hearty funding boost countywide

IN A MAJOR win for community initiatives in Limerick, a groundbreaking €1 million fund to bolster the county’s Men's Sheds has been announced.

The initiative, revealed at the National Conference of the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA) known as Shedfest, in Virginia, Cavan, will see grants of up to €3,000 allocated to 25 of Limerick’s Men’s Sheds.

These grants are specifically earmarked to cover running costs such as heating, electricity, utility bills, and insurance expenses.

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Sheds to receive funding in Limerick include: Doon & District, Mulcair, Galbally, Bruff, Dooradoyle, Glin, St Patrick’s, Adare, Southill, Garryowen, Herbertstown & District, Croom, Our Lady of Lourdes, Ballyneety, Caherdavin, St Mary’s Parish, Abbeyfeale, Families Limerick, Limerick City Build, Knocklong, Limerick Mental Health Asso Men’s Shed Headway Limerick, IWA, Kilmallock, and Newcastle West.

Minister Heather Humphreys emphasised the crucial role played by these groups in fostering community ties, combating isolation, and offering a welcoming space for men of all ages to socialise, share skills, and complete projects.

“As we enter the winter months, the supports that our Men’s Sheds provide are more important than ever,” Minister Humphreys stated.

She expressed her delight at introducing this new initiative, building on last year’s fund of €800,000, and reiterated the government’s enduring commitment to Men’s Sheds.

Enda Egan, CEO of the Irish Men’s Sheds Association, welcomed the announcement, acknowledging the challenges faced by the Men’s Shed movement during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He expressed gratitude for Minister Humphreys’ ongoing support, stressing the funding’s importance in ensuring the sustainability of Men’s Sheds, especially as many struggle to reopen and remain operational post-Covid. “There is no doubt Shed members, and their communities will benefit greatly from this funding,” he explained.

“ I know that the support from Minister Humphreys is much appreciated by all shed members,” he said.