Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

1686. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the steps being taken to fund women’s sheds in counties Carlow and Kilkenny and across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30486/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am very aware of the growing interest in Women's Sheds in Ireland, and of the great work they do all over the country including in Carlow and Kilkenny. They provide a space for women of all ages to come together on a regular basis in a safe, comfortable and inclusive environment.

However, as Women’s Sheds do not currently operate under an overall national organisation, my Department is unable to provide funding to Women’s Sheds similar to the funding provided to Men's Sheds via the Irish Men's Shed Association.

I will support in any way that I can, the development of a national governing body for Women’s Sheds to ensure that individual Women’s Sheds can benefit from having a strong national representative body to advocate on their behalf.

Indeed a representative from my office recently met with members of the National Forum of Women's Sheds. In addition, a delegation from the forum will meet with officials from my Department, along with colleagues from the Department of Health, in the coming weeks.

It should be noted that although there is no national organisation for Women's Sheds, my Department provides funding to individual Women’s (Sister) Sheds under various funding supports, including:

• The €7 million Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2025 which allowed Women’s Sheds to apply for running costs as well as small capital works for the purchase of equipment for their facilities. I will be announcing successful projects under the LEP 2025 shortly.
• The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2024 - 2028 also provides supports to Women’s Sheds. This support is still available through SICAP.
• The LEADER programme where funding is not targeted at any particular group or sector in rural communities but is focused on a thematic approach to rural development. Women’s Sheds may be eligible to apply.