Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I apologise for being late, which was the result of a misunderstanding. I am pleased to have the opportunity to discuss the important and exciting innovation that is the men's sheds movement, which provides a way of engaging with men within their communities. It is an idea that came from Australia and has spread like wildfire through many parts of this country, with well in excess of 200 such groups in operation at this time. We all know how notoriously difficult it can be to get men to engage in any type of activity after retirement. Irish men were never great at taking up courses or going to the bingo. Many find themselves at a loose end after retiring but it is difficult to get men who have reached a certain age to bond together in any sort of community activity. However, large numbers of men have taken very quickly and enthusiastically to the men's sheds movement. In my constituency, several groups are up and running and doing great work, from East Wall to the city centre to Cabra.

An issue that comes up in every discussion of the men's sheds movement is the question of resources. Participants do all types of activities, from having a cup of tea together to working on a community garden, doing carpentry or electrical work, doing maintenance at senior citizens' complexes and so on. It is about participating on a communal basis in activities in which they would not otherwise have engaged. This phenomenon is now embedded in the community and is proving a great success. It is a good thing in all sorts of ways, particularly in respect of men's health. Serious consideration should now be given to the provision of specific supports to ensure the movement can thrive and expand throughout the rest of the country.

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