Templeogue Community Men’s Shed was founded in October 2017 by Albert Johnson. The shed is currently based in the car park of Templeogue United Football Club. The shed consists of two refurbished 40-foot containers, which both have a workshop and social areas.

The shed hosted an open day in May and Liam, the current chair of the shed, says this boosted their membership numbers significantly. The shed now boasts 50 members. The membership is made up of retired tradesmen, businessmen, bus drivers, Luas drivers and Gardaí to name but a few.

Templeogue Community Men’s Shed hosts a wide range of activities, including Tai Chi and walking in Tymon Park, woodturning and bird watching. Other members of the shed play bowls.

Tuesday mornings at the shed are devoted to music with some men singing while others play instruments such as guitars and banjos. Emanating from the music morning is an invitation from South Dublin County Council to perform at an open day in Rathfarnham Castle in September. The group have named themselves “The Elderly Brothers”.

The shed also embarks on monthly tours and have visited the GPO, Croke Park, Leinster House, Dublin Castle and Rathfarnham Castle. They also have a small library in the shed, where members have donated books. As well as this, the men have a class where they are taught how to use smartphones. Some of the members also participate in adult education classes. Liam reiterates that the social aspect of the shed is of the most importance, and he says every activity is finished with a cup of tea and a chat.

In the future, Liam says the Templeogue Men’s Shed hopes to become a green shed. This involves using solar panels to generate their energy. The panels are due to be installed on the roof of Templeogue United Football Club, whose power feeds into the shed. Liam hopes the shed can fly a Green Flag as a result of this joint venture.

Templeogue Community Men’s Shed is open Monday to Friday from 10am until 1pm. Anyone interested in joining the shed is asked to contact Liam Edwards on 086 1922386 or call down to the shed.

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