Men’s Shed launched for Rathcoole and Saggart
By Aideen O'Flaherty
A NEW Men’s Shed for men in Rathcoole and Saggart was launched on Monday, and offers the chance for retired men in the area to socialise and engage in a variety of hobbies, such as woodwork and photography.
Local man Gerry Malone (68) set up the Men’s Shed with the help of Luke Collins from South Dublin County Council, so that it can be a place for retired or unemployed men in the area, to get together and socialise.
Luke Collins (SDCC) at the launch on Monday with Men’s Shed members Dan Kennelly, Gerry Keane, Brendan Phelan, William Hilliard, Fergus Ennis, Billy Stewart, Shay Jarves, Fergus Garrett and John Mooney
Mr Malone told The Echo: “I’m from the Rathcoole and Saggart area myself, and there’s nothing for men in the area to do.
“The Men’s Shed is about getting them out of their homes for a cup of tea, and so they can do a few bits and pieces.
“We hope to help anyone in the village who needs help, and we hope to have our members get together and communicate better.
“They can even come down just for a cup of tea and a chat, if they don’t want to be in the workshop.”
Explaining what the launch was like, Mr Malone said: “The atmosphere was electric. I wasn’t expecting so many people to show up.”
A variety of hobbies are on hand for members of the Men’s Shed to take part in, including woodwork, metalwork, photography, art, and music, and the shed is open every weekday from 10am to 5pm.
There is no fee to become a member, all you have to do is go to the Rathcoole-Saggart Men’s Shed, which is at the rear of the church in Rathcoole village, introduce yourself and sign up.
There are 32 members of the men’s shed so far, and Mr Malone said some of their members include “ex-builders, ex-mechanics and accountants – they all have a lot to offer.”
Mr Malone wanted to thank John Mooney of JMY Woodtech, Cathal Russell of Rathcoole Hardware, Straffan Timber in Newcastle, and Luke Collins from South Dublin County Council, for their assistance in getting the Rathcoole-Saggart Men’s Shed up and running.
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