Less than three months ago, Dan McInerney and his peers set up Herbertstown District Men’s Shed in Co Limerick. Having heard of similar sheds around the county, Dan expressed interest and with the help of five others spread the word about setting up their own shed. “The response we got was incredible. From the beginning there was a huge response and the idea snowballed from there.
Less than three months ago, Dan McInerney and his peers set up Herbertstown District Men’s Shed in Co Limerick. Having heard of similar sheds around the county, Dan expressed interest and with the help of five others spread the word about setting up their own shed.
“The response we got was incredible. From the beginning there was a huge response and the idea snowballed from there.
"We currently operate out of the local development hall. While it is shared with other organisations and clubs, the room we have is very suitable but we hope to get our own space set up in the near future.”
The group has a strong membership which Dan puts down to the diverse range of activities they are involved in.
“We are very involved in the community and the support from local businesses has been very generous as a result. We are taking on a painting and refurbishing job in the local parochial hall and the church yard. We’ve also been asked to get involved in the Tidy Towns.
"Going forward we are looking at setting up our own workshop and a polytunnel. The hope would be to get a vegetable garden set up this spring and get the local primary schools involved.”
The shed opens every Tuesday evening and Thursday morning. Members come from all backgrounds and ages.
“We’ve men coming who are in their forties right up to men in their mid-70s. They come from all backgrounds, from mechanics and retired tradesmen to accountants and business owners.”
Without doubt there is an emphasis on developing the Men’s Shed further. Dan is keen to keep moving forward as he is already seeing the positive impact the group is having on the community and on its members.
“A good few of our members are really getting involved, they love it. There are lads I’ve known for a long time and I can definitely see a positive attitude change in them. It gives people a purpose, an excuse to get out and about and get involved in community projects, which is a great thing for everyone.”
If you are interested in joining Herbertstown District Men’s Shed or if you want more information, contact Dan on 087 7597369.
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