Housing Minister Simon Coveney joined local politicians to turn the sod at the planned new Men’s Shed in Carrigaline, last week.
HOUSING Minister Simon Coveney joined local politicians to turn the sod at the planned new Men’s Shed in Carrigaline, last week.
The new premises, at Waterpark in Carrigaline, will be rolled out in phases over the coming years.
Phase 1, which has just commenced, will cost in the region of €30,000 and Carrigaline Men’s Shed have put forward €15,000 of its own funds – much of which was generated through local fundraising.
Cork County Council has matched that €15,000, with funds from the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.
There are currently over 350 registered Men’s Sheds in the country, with 30 of these being in Cork.
Speaking at the ceremony, County Mayor Seamus McGrath said it was a very significant step for an incredibly active community-based organisation.
Chairman of Carrigaline Men’s Shed, Barry Cogan, thanked all who had helped bring the project to fruition, paying particular tribute to the Carrigaline Men’s Shed members.
‘I would like to credit each and every member for their vision, talent and commitment in taking on this project and making this day possible,’ he said.
The first prefab was transferred to the new site over the weekend and next week the polytunnel is expected to be erected. A permanent 20m x 18m purpose-built Mens Shed will be constructed in the year ahead.
Minister Coveney said the Men’s Shed concept was making a significant and positive contribution to community development, not only in Carrigaline but with many other projects, across the county. ‘This facility allows men to meet, to socialise, to use their experience and skillsets in a very practical way. Most importantly, it’s an opportunity to bring people together in a way that supports community interaction and development. This will be a pilot benchmark for the quality of services that other Men’s Sheds throughout the county can potentially provide,’ he said.
Carrigaline Men’s Shed currently has 35 members with new members, over 18 years of age, always welcome.
