Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the allocation of funding. Some 323 sheds across Limerick, particularly in places in my constituency such as Galbally, Glin, Doon, Killmallock and Newcastle West, have been allocated funding. I have met people from a number of Men's Sheds. I met members of the Glin Men's Shed at the horse fair a couple of months ago. One of issues I would ask the Minister to examine is that relating to capital costs versus operational costs. The sheds often have capital costs for the purposes of getting buildings up and running, for example buying tools and timber for the work the participants do. However, once the sheds are up and running, things such as tools do not represent recurring costs because they last for a number of years. Operational costs can cause difficulties, particularly in the context of, for example, insurance. This is the case throughout the country. I am aware that the cost of insurance working group is working on that issue. I am also aware that there has been a slight reduction in the cost of motor insurance, but this is having an impact on voluntary organisations. Perhaps the Department could examine the operational costs, or provide help to cover those costs. Men's Sheds may avail of the capital costs in one year and not require those funds the next year. That is not to say that they are not under pressure. I would appreciate it if the Minister could examine this matter.

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