Combatting Rural Isolation

14 Men's Sheds in Cavan and Monaghan benefitted from scheme

The Government has confirmed that funding for Men’s Sheds across the country has now been fully processed, with all applications received, assessed, and paid in recent months. The funding, delivered through the Irish Men's Sheds Association (IMSA), has supported 369 Men’s Sheds with grants of up to €3,000 to assist with essential running costs such as heating, electricity and insurance.

Announcing the update, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary said the completion of payments marks an important step in ensuring the sustainability of Men’s Sheds nationwide. “I am delighted to have been able to provide this funding to the IMSA to help support Men’s Sheds throughout the country,” he said. “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.”

The funding programme, first announced last year, enabled the IMSA to distribute supports directly to its members, with all applications undergoing a full assessment process before payment was issued. The Department has confirmed that every successful applicant has now received their allocation in full.

Local TD Brendan Smith (FF) welcomed the development, particularly the impact at regional level. “I welcome confirmation by the Minister that funding he allocated has enabled the provision of small scale grants to 14 Men’s Sheds Projects throughout Cavan and Monaghan,” he said.

Minister Niamh Smyth (FF) pointed to the broader social value of the initiative, noting: “the men's shed are instrumental in combatting rural isolation so it is nice to see that these efforts are acknowledged with the funding they received.”

The announcement reinforces the Government’s commitment to Men’s Sheds as key community resources, with the completed rollout ensuring groups can continue their work without added financial strain.