About Shed
August 2017
In 2014 Pat McIntyre, Martin Perrill, Joe McManus, Paul Hennessy and Gerard Hayes set in place the framework for the Castlerea Men’s Shed to flourish. “It is a balancing act in our shed. It is about doing something you enjoy but not killing yourself working: it’s important to get out to socialise as well,” confides Pat. The shed has depicted the true essence of teamwork and made fruit of their efforts in return. The men have been busy selling their home – grown fruit and vegetables in local markets throughout the area, with produce including potatoes, onions, courgettes and many more.
“They are going down a treat and are selling very well. People love knowing that it is authentic produce. We grow them in our own allotments on the premises and mind them ourselves.” The shed has come on leaps and bounds from it’s humble beginnings in the local Teagasc office, with the group now having their own meeting place, thanks to the help from the GRETB. “It was a big undertaking when we got it. We wanted to make allotments and a garden but thr briars were up over our heads!” explains Pat “We did all of the clean up ourselves and it took a lot of work, but it looks great now.
The men from the Shed are always kept busy with the projects they undertake, including working on the allotments, constructing Buddy Benches and helping out the local school with handy – work. “It’s nice to be doing something and keeping busy. It is important for us to get people out of the house and away from looking at the same four walls every day. Even if it means being kept occupied for half an hour clearing a bed of flowers, it is still something.”
The shed has welcomed a diverse range of people, including chefs and gardeners and Castlerea Men’s Shed is always interested in expanding its membership. The shed is open Tuesday and Friday from 10 am – 3 pm in St. Patricks Street, Knockroe Park, Castlerea. For more information please see contacts listed or alternatively you can contact IMSA on 01 8916150