I raise the need in our society for greater supports for both men's and women's sheds. They are incredibly important organisations in all of our communities. They provide a social outlet for people from all walks of life, particularly people living alone or at risk of social isolation or mental health difficulties. Nenagh men's shed in my hometown has announced it might have to cease operations due to overheads including rent, insurance and electricity. It has approached Irish Rail, the HSE and the Department of Defence to look for just one twentieth of an acre of ground for a cabin to operate from, but to no avail. The lack of community spaces for voluntary organisations such as Nenagh men's shed is a growing issue in Nenagh. I believe there is space for the Government to support local authorities in providing municipal spaces for voluntary groups at lower rents.

I thank the Deputy for his question. He is right that the importance of men's and women's sheds cannot be underestimated. Ireland has the highest percentage of men's sheds per capita in the world. They were founded originally in Australia but they have really taken off. We found it hard after Covid to get sheds back up and running but they are back up and running now and they are so important for emotional well-being and positive mental health.

There are some areas where local authorities are very upfront and supportive of men's sheds and other organisations; for others it is quite difficult. If the Deputy sends on the details, we will have a look at trying to get the council to come to some sort of agreement. The overriding message has to be the importance of these sheds for people's well-being.