Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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646. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his proposals to provide funding for men's sheds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46191/15]

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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My Department provides support to the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA) Limited under the funding scheme to support national organisations (SSNO) in the community and voluntary sector. This scheme aims to provide multi-annual funding to national organisations towards core costs associated with the provision of services.

The current scheme was advertised for applications early last year. Some 157 applications were received by Pobal. Following competitive assessment, 55 applications were approved for funding for the two-year period from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2016. The award process included considerations such as the social and economic benefits, consistency with current policies and long term vision.

IMSA applied successfully for funding under the scheme, and were allocated €175,950 over the 24 month period of the scheme. The aim of the funding is to assist IMSA to increase the network of Men’s Sheds in Ireland to over 400, with over 20,000 disadvantaged men participating. The funding is contributing to the employment of the CEO and a Resource Worker, and associated overheads. I understand that IMSA also receive funding through subscriptions, donations, sponsors and other fundraising.

Funding under the SSNO is specifically for national organisations such as IMSA for core funding. My Department does not provide funding under the SSNO for local or regional branches of national organisations. I understand that the principal activity of the organisation is the supporting of men’s learning and well-being. There are no schemes within my Department that specifically provide funding appropriate to these activities at a local level.

It is envisaged that the new Scheme to Support National Organisations will be advertised in early 2016 and groups funded under the 2014-2016 Scheme and other interested organisations can apply again for funding under the new SSNO Scheme. Organisations who meet the minimum overall quality score threshold will be considered eligible for funding, subject to available resources.