At a meeting of the Limerick Corporation last night, presided over by Alderman Gilligan, Councillor Leahy proposed a resolution to express the Corporation’s admiration for the manner in which the new Irish Parliamentary Party advocated Ireland’s claims during their first session in the British House of Commons. The resolution also expressed full confidence in the Party’s integrity and patriotism and suggested that a copy of the resolution be forwarded to John Redmond, the leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party.
Councillor O’Brien (Abbey) seconded the resolution, expressing his pleasure in supporting it. However, Councillor Whelan voiced his opinion that they should focus on the business of the Council and leave the Parliamentary Party to do their work for Ireland. He proposed an amendment that the resolution should not be adopted, which was seconded by Councillor Godsell.
Councillor Leahy defended the resolution, arguing that there was nothing contentious in congratulating the Irish Party for their work during their first session. He pointed out that similar resolutions were being passed throughout the country and questioned why they should not do so here, if they were indeed true Irishmen. Councillor Coffey, although in favor of the resolution, thought it should not be moved just then.
During the division, twelve members voted for the resolution, including Leahy, DonneUan, O’Brien (Abbey), Coffey, Fitzgerald, Murphy, and Moloney. Four members voted for the amendment, including Godsell, Michael Plafen, Dalton, and Whelan. Sir Thomas and Aldermen O’Brien (Irishtown) and James Moloney did not participate in the vote.
The resolution was adopted by a majority of the Corporation, with most of the support coming from the Labour members. The Limerick Corporation’s congratulations to the Irish Parliamentary Party highlight the widespread support for their efforts on behalf of Ireland in the British House of Commons.
Northants Evening Telegraph – Friday 12 April 1901
