Members of the Portmarnock and District Men’s Shed can now stay connected with relatives from around the world thanks to a new high speed broadband connection in their clubhouse.
The local Men’s Shed, located to the rear of The White Sands Hotel, was recently kitted out with a phone line and high speed connection by broadband provider Magnet Plus.
Gerry McHugh is part of the Men‘s Shed in Portmarnock where the members come together to learn digital skills for the 21st century.
“We started the Portmarnock Men’s Shed in June and have recently installed high speed broadband in the portakabin with the help of Magnet Plus,” Gerry said.
“Magnet Plus have been a godsend. The service is exceptional, with superb speed and the staff are a pleasure to deal with.
“The broadband has become such an important tool for us, especially for one-to-one training. It’s a pleasure to see someone who is 79 realise they can video talk and email with family members overseas after only a few short training sessions.
“Many of the guys want to learn these skills but do not want to ask their children or grandchildren in case they get annoyed. Here they can learn from their peers at their own pace.
“The support from Magnet Plus has been superb. It is only after it has all come together that you realise how important it is for the community and the great companionship that has been created among men that never knew each other before.”
Less than half of over 65s have broadband at home which means installing broadband in community centres like a Men’s Shedis vital for helping older generations stay connected.
“Connecting the Men’s Shed to Magnet Plus has brought men from all walks of life together with a common purpose,” said Magnet Plus’ marketing director Louise McKeown.
“This initiative by Magnet Plus has shown that access to fast internet can help people reach out to others within their own community and provide them with access to a broader network of family and friends overseas.
“We hope that by working with Men’s Sheds across Ireland we can help people overcome loneliness and feel more connected to their friends and family.”
