2018 Men’s Sheds Gathering – thank you, one and all!

500 men, 32 counties, four sporting legends, the Queen’s favourite fishmonger, and a Lord Mayor. Pairc Ui Chaoimh has never witnessed anything quite like the Men’s Sheds Gathering 2018, which brought all the aforementioned to Cork for two memorable days of fun and camaraderie.

Ably compered by Irish Country Livingeditor Mairead Lavery, the event reflected the enormous strides made by Irish sheds in the space of just a few short years. Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development, opened proceedings via a short pre-recorded video, lavishing praise on the movement and its impact on communities.

Other speakers included Lord Mayor of Cork Clllr. Mick Finn, Fergal Fox of the HSE, David Gillick, Finbarr Kennelly of Haven Pharmacy, Topline ambassador Donncha O’Callaghan and philanthropist Alan Kerins.

Four sheds – Kilbeggan, Rostrevor, Dundalk and Ballina – awed the crowds with tales of their achievements, achievements which many in the audience could relate to and, indeed, match.

Throughout the day, hundreds of men thronged our Malehealth.ie.ie Expo, where dozens of partner organisations had set up stands offering resources, advice and freebies on all aspects of men’s health.

Day one of the Gathering closed with a gala dinner at Rochestown Park Hotel, while day two included tours of Co. Cork attractions for those who stayed on. The IMSA would like to thank each and every shed and shed member who attended for making the day such a memorable one.

We would also like to thank our partners and sponsors, including:

Mairead Lavery of the Farmers Journal
Lord Mayor Cllr. Mick Finn and Cork City Council
The HSE and Healthy Ireland
Pairc Ui Chaoimh
Cork Convention Bureau
Failte Ireland
Dept. of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Topline, Haven Pharmacy, FBD Insurance and the Farmers Journal.
Dept of Community and Rural Development, Social Enterpreneurs Ireland, Social Innovation Fund Ireland, and the Ireland Funds.