Women’s shed marks first year

THE Templeogue Women’s Shed marked one year since it was founded with a celebration in the Limekiln Rounders GAA Pavilion in Tymon Park on Monday morning.

Approximately 70 people attended the event, which featured an uplifting performance by ukulele band Ukulele Vibes which was rapturously received by all in attendance.

The event also offered an opportunity for the people who founded the group to reflect on the growth and impact it has had on the community of Templeogue over the last 12 months.

Cllr Pamela Kearns (Lab) is one of the founders of the group, and said it was set up to address the need for a social outlet for women in the area, particularly after the pandemic.

“When we started the shed, myself and five other people were sitting at a table talking about it, saying we hope it takes off, and now we have 56 people,” Cllr Kearns told The Echo.

“We knew there was a need for a women’s shed, particularly post-Covid, and when people came into it, initially they were reluctant and reticent.

“Some of them mentioned they hadn’t spoken to people other than their children or their husbands in a long time.”

There has been a “transformation” in the women in the shed, according to Cllr Kearns, as they enjoy the social aspect of the women’s shed and look forward to attending its many events.

Over the last year, members of the Templeogue Women’s Shed have visited the Dáil, had high tea in the city centre, and have engaged in a variety of activities and informative talks.

“There’s just a feel-good atmosphere in the shed,” added Cllr Kearns. “We do things like drawing and Nordic walking – it’s just a hugely positive experience.”

When asked what plans are in place for the Templeogue Women’s Shed for the coming 12 months, Cllr Kearns said talks from the library service and Citizens’ Information are being arranged, along with activities like wood engraving.

She also added that the group hopes to secure its own dedicated space in the intergenerational centre that’s currently being constructed in Tymon Park.

Templeogue Women’s Shed is open to new members, and they are welcome to attend the shed on Monday, Tuesday or Friday from 10am to 12.30pm every week in the pavilion.

There’s a €20 fee to join but this can be paid after attending a few meetings and deciding if you’d like to join, and there’s a €5 fee for every week that you attend the shed which covers the cost of materials and tea and coffee.