photos jbs
On Tuesday the 14th of October the Kilkenny Men’s Shed held a showcase event. Friends, supporters, members of Kilkenny Men’s Shed and Deputy Mayor Cllr Maria Dollard were in attendance.
Speaking to The Kilkenny Observer, Cllr Dollard commented “Kilkenny Men’s Shed continues to be a great friend of Keep Kilkenny Beautiful. We have been delighted to work with them and avail of their wonderful work, especially the beautiful bird boxes that have been installed at Francis McManus Place this year.” The Deputy Mayor continued “The power of the Men’s Shed to harness the skills of the men that volunteer there and the pride they take in their work, brings such value to the community in Kilkenny.”
Cllr Dollard said that friendships and solidarity developed through shared interests, values and a passion for volunteering cannot be underestimated. “I want to thank them for their ongoing work and I wish them every success going forward,” concluded the Green party councillor.
There was a full house on the day, guests were given a tour of the Shed and shown all the fantastic work the members had on display. This included a custom-made bird palace, bird feeding tables, bird boxes, fairy doors and bicycles to name but a few. Guests could also view the fantastic new table saw which allows all these projects to be completed in a professional and safe manner. The purchase of this table saw was made possible through support of Kilkenny County Council & the Local Enhancement Programme and Kilkenny Leader Partnership.
The Kilkenny Men’s Shed is on the grounds of the Good Shepherd Centre and thanks to the support of the Good Shepherd Centre the members do not have the added pressure of worrying about costly rent, which in the current climate is truly a gift.
Martin Fitzpatrick from JJ Rhatigan was also present on the day and thanks to their generous donation of timber, members can make many items which can generate income for the Shed to help with running costs. It also allows the members to be involved in meaningful tasks all whilst learning new skills.
Some of the projects completed in recent times were the fantastic tree seat for the Samaritans Kilkenny and the bird boxes & planters for Keep Kilkenny Beautiful. Currently the members are working on a fairy door project for St. Patrick’s School.
Many of the members who call to the Shed every Tuesday do so with the support of the Kilkenny Volunteer Centre, which is an excellent local support. The National Lottery has also provided support to the Shed which the members are truly grateful for.
Guests all congregated in the Men’s Shed meeting room to chat further & enjoy the beautiful cakes and sandwiches and of course the obligatory cup of tea!
If you know of anyone who would be interested in joining the Kilkenny Men’s Shed please call Ann on 085 838 1653 (please leave a message) or email kilkenny@menssheds.ie Alternatively, please call to the Men’s Shed any Tuesday afternoon from 2.30pm onwards at R95 DW32.
They also take donations of bicycles & furniture (in good repair) and of course good quality timber.
