Monaghan Men’s Shed in Old Rooskey, Co Monaghan, began as a cross-border project undertaken by the VEC in 2012.

Speaking on behalf of the men, Peter Cavanagh explains that the shed was then known as the Monaghan Men’s Hub project and was funded by Peace III. Its objective was to provide a safe and alcohol-free environment for men from both sides of the border and all religious backgrounds, to come together and better understand each other’s opinions and values. Monaghan County Council and the HSE supported the group from day one.

A tutor with the VEC at the time, Peter offered the group training in basic computers, woodcraft, home repairs and maintenance. The group refurbished the premises to make it more user friendly, with the addition of a woodwork workshop and a small garden allotment.

Having proven their dedication to the project, the group continued as Monaghan Men’s Shed. Woodworking, gardening, computer use and social outings are just some of the ongoing activities at the shed. An old poly tunnel donated by the HSE is used to grow plants and fruit.

Unique to Monaghan Men’s Shed is the number of cross-border projects. Together with friends from the nearby Armagh shed, eight garden benches were donated to church groups in Monaghan and Armagh. Some of the other recent construction projects include stage props and bird and bat boxes for the local tidy towns group. Each month they display and sell handcrafted work at the local market.

Now involved with a Peace IV project called Together We Achieve More, which helps integrate cross-border communities, the group travelled to every corner of Ireland. Monaghan Men’s Shed works hard to include and engage with various communities.

Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am-3pm. The 56 members welcome anyone who wishes to drop in for a chat. Contact 047-81619 during opening times.