I propose to take Questions Nos. 316 to 325, inclusive, together.
Last November, I was delighted to announce funding of €800,000 to support Men’s Sheds throughout the country. The initiative will see grants of up to €2,000 provided to over 400 registered Men’s Sheds nationwide, to assist them with running costs such as electricity or insurance bills.
The individual grants will be distributed to the over 400 Men’s Sheds via its representative body, the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA). I would advise the Deputy to contact the IMSA for further details and with queries regarding the distribution of this fund.
Separately, Men's Sheds can also apply for funding to the Community Support Fund (CSF) that was announced last November under the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP). The €10m Community Support Fund was set up to help small community groups with their energy/running costs but will also provide funding for small capital works projects. Costs incurred in the period 1 April 2022 – 31 March 2023 are eligible under the fund.
The CSF is being administered by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) on behalf of my Department and interested Men’s Sheds should contact their local LCDC directly for further information.