Having opened their doors in 2011, Dundalk Men’s Shed has gone from strength to strength since those early days. “This September we will be opened seven years. It all began with a woman named Eva Bernie, who organised the funds and got the men together. She was the shed coordinator,” says Brian Byrne.

“I joined three years ago, and they were looking for someone to help on the committee. I volunteered and ended up as chair, a role which I enjoyed. I stepped down from the post recently, and now I am the treasurer.”

Brian acknowledges how the shed has been somewhat of a life saver to the shedders: “Throughout the year we have had people coming in from different organisations, giving us advice on health and wellbeing. I think if you have something to get up for in the morning and somewhere to go, that is very important. I know it helped me tremendously, and there are a couple of lads who reckon that they would be in a very poor state now if they did not have the shed to come to.”

Dundalk Men’s Shed has approximately 60 members who enjoy everything that the social set-up has to offer. “Some of the men would come for the camaraderie, a cup of tea and a bit of slagging,” laughs Brian.

“We would cook a meal once a week, because there would be a few lads who would be eating on their own at home, and it is very popular.

“We are open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 2pm. Just call into the shed and one of the men will be happy to show those with an interest in joining around the premises.

“We have an application form that they can fill out. It is nothing intense just details such as their name, address, phone number and next of kin. Subscription is a fiver a week, which goes towards heating, broadband, electricity, tea and coffee.”

If you would like more information on Dundalk Men’s Shed contact Brain on 086 855 4134.