Malcolm Byrne
Ceist:344. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht any funding options are available for capital projects by Men's and Women's Sheds. [47986/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 24 June 2026
Ceisteanna (344)
Freagraí scríofa
I am very aware of the huge interest in Men’s Sheds and Women's Sheds in Ireland, and of the great work they do in every corner of the country. They provide a space for men and women of all ages to come together on a regular basis in a safe, comfortable and inclusive environment.
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to continue to fund Men's Sheds and Women's Sheds and my Department provides a range of supports which are available to individual Men's Sheds and Women's Sheds.
These supports include -
• The Local Enhancement Programme (LEP);
• The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2024 - 2028; and
• The LEADER programme.
Men’s Sheds and Women's Sheds can apply individually for all of these schemes.
In addition to these schemes, last month, I announced details of the Men’s Sheds who have benefitted from funding my Department provided directly to the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA), this funding was for operational costs rather than capital.
I would encourage all Men's Sheds and Women's Sheds to check my Department’s website www.gov.ie/drcdg, and to engage with their Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs), Local Development Companies and Public Participation Networks (PPN), to ensure they are aware of relevant funding opportunities as they become available.
I recognise the important work carried out by both Men’s Sheds and Women’s Sheds and remain committed to supporting their valuable work in communities across the country.