Cork Men’s Sheds get €76,000 in grants

Men’s Shed groups across Cork city and county have received funding worth €76,000, distributed in grants of up to €3,000 to assist with running costs.

In all, 37 Cork member groups of the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA) have received funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

City sheds receiving the maximum €3,000 allocation include Douglas/Frankfield, Mayfield, and Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny, while county groups receiving similar amounts include Kinsale, Carrigaline, and Midleton.

The funding was announced last year by minister of state at the Department of Rural and Community Development, Jerry Buttimer.

The Cork groups are among 369 members of IMSA to receive funding to assist with their running and operational costs such as heating, electricity, and insurance bills.

Mr Buttimer said he was delighted to have been able to provide funding to the IMSA.

“Men’s Sheds provide a vital service to men up and down the country, allowing them to come together in a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment where they can share skills, connect with one another and with their communities,” he said.

“I am lucky to have visited many Men’s Sheds since I took up my position last year, and I have seen first-hand the important role they hold in communities up and down the country.

“For the men and the wider community, the sheds help to tackle social isolation, provide a space to socialise and build friendships, particularly in rural areas.”