With Men’s Sheds now sprouting like February daffodils in every corner of the island, we thought it was time to introduce you to some new arrivals. These sheds may not have a lengthy string of achievements and accolades under their belts yet, but nothing ever flowered without a seed.

Seid na bhFear Dhuiche Sheoigheach/Joyce Country Men’s Shed, Co Galway

As of 1 February 2019, the Irish Men’s Sheds Association boasts 447 affiliated sheds. Few can enjoy such scenic a location, however, as Seid na bhFear Dhuiche Sheoigheach in Co Galway (Joyce Country Men’s Shed to those whose cúpla focail are on the rusty side).

Killann-Shercock Men's Shed in Co Cavan was inspired by the stories featured on this page in Irish Country Living.

The shed is based in Corr na Móna, a Co Galway village perched contentedly on the shores of Lough Corrib. Famous for its trout and salmon fishing, the village now has another string to its bow, courtesy of its hard-working men’s sheds committee.

“The biggest thing is just to get it going,” says committee member Seán Breathnach. “We’re very lucky to have the support of our local parish priest, Fr Gerry Burns. He offered us the old garage at the back of the parochial house to use as our premises.”

With the single biggest stumbling block to a new shed’s success – the sourcing of a premises – out of the way thanks to Fr Burns, the work could begin in earnest. “Two local ladies, Geraldine and Mary, were absolutely instrumental in helping us get set up,” says Seán, who also credits Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA) chair Eoin Martyn and Shed support volunteer Terry Burke for their assistance.

People aren’t sure what it is just yet, they think it’s just something for old people, or people with skills. It’s not

“We’re hoping to get a lathe, a wood-turner and stone-engraving facilities soon,” says Seán. “We also want to get into bicycle repair. As far as numbers, we’re doing pretty well. We’ve 20 or 21 men signed up, with 10 to 12 heavily involved so far. They’re not just local, either. We’ve a couple of members from England and one from Germany.”

Seán reflects on his aspirations for the shed and what it can offer the community. “People aren’t sure what it is just yet, they think it’s just something for old people, or people with skills. It’s not. You don’t have to do anything, you can drop in and have a cup of tea. It’s an outlet for people that need one, whether they’re on their own or retired or for whatever reason.”

Prospective members can contact Seán on 087 2383 651.

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