Dan Lynch of the Arnprior/Braeside/McNab Men’s Shed near Ottawa was on tour in Ireland last month and took the time to visit four of the 450 Men’s Sheds on the Island. Here’s some of what he shared with us, in his own words.
“In speaking to the men, it was obvious that we have a common theme of creating an environment where everyone is welcome, creating an atmosphere that makes one feel comfortable even if you don’t have a trade; mutual respect, companionship, and a place where you will be respected for who you are.”
“Of note, all the Men’s Sheds in Dublin are named East Wall Men’s Shed. The first Men’s Shed, located on Church Street was manned by three individuals, one working in the flower garden, and two enjoying a coffee and smoke. Through conversation, I learned that this group’s Shed is on church property and they are permitted to grow flowers, which are then sold to town folks; or donated back to the church for events being held there.
“The main Dublin Men’s Shed is located in a warehouse close to the Port. Their old location was rezoned for housing, and the developer provided this location free of charge for 10 years! Being very close to the Port, access to hardwood pallets is easily obtained. By far, the most sold products made by this Shed are wooden benches; followed very closely by wooden urns.”
“Regretfully the Killarney Men’s Shed was closed. With the size of the Shed and the buttons displayed, I have to assume they do something with clothing.“
“In summary, although my trip to Ireland was a pleasure trip, I took the opportunity to take a couple of Arnprior-Braeside-McNab Men’s Shed coasters crafted by Lorne Bretzlaff, which I gifted to the different Men’s Sheds. I In turn received a wooden bowl that was to be presented to our Men’s Shed.“
