MEP highlights vital impact of Leitrim Sheds in local communities during parliament debate

Highlighting Leitrim Sheds, MEP Nina Carberry said EU funds could complement national schemes to ensure the continued success of local community initiatives.

The importance of Men’s Sheds across Leitrim was highlighted this week, along with the need for continued funding.

Speaking from the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Leitrim MEP Nina Carberry emphasised the vital role that Men’s and Women’s Sheds play in building stronger and more connected communities.

Carberry praised the Men’s Shed movement, which was awarded the European Citizens’ Prize seven years ago.

The MEP for Leitrim also welcomed the growing participation of Women’s Sheds in recent years, noting that “thousands of members across the country are now taking part in activities each week, ranging from gardening to creative arts, woodwork, and vehicle repair.”

Following the debate, Carberry highlighted the eight Men’s Sheds active across County Leitrim and the expanding network of Women’s Sheds nationwide.

She called for “continued access to rural development funding and the LEADER programme as part of the next EU budget to ensure that sheds can benefit from EU funds which can top up national schemes.”

Carberry also pointed to the EU Skills Agenda, describing it as a fantastic opportunity to recognise and support the informal learning that takes place in sheds.

“At a time when Europe is facing a severe skills shortage in many sectors, sheds are quietly doing remarkable work by passing on traditional trades and practical know-how,” she said.

Concluding, Carberry described the Men’s and Women’s Sheds model as a powerful example of local community activism and noted that the EU should explore ways to expand this model across the continent.

There are eight active Men’s Sheds across Leitrim, including Aughavas Men’s Shed, Ballinamore Men’s Shed, Mohill Men’s Shed, Carrick-on-Shannon Men’s Shed, Killenummery Men’s Shed, Kinlough Men’s Shed, North Leitrim Men’s Shed, and Shannonside Travellers Shed.