Dublin, Ireland – In a recent meeting of the Irish Branch of the Evangelical Alliance, a unanimous protest was adopted, condemning the treatment of Dr Long in Limerick and expressing deep concern over the actions of Resident Magistrate Mr Hickson during the petty sessions court. The committee conveyed their strong disapproval of Mr Hickson’s dismissal of a case against the Rev. Edward O’Leary for using inflammatory language against Dr Long. They also raised objections to the language used by Chief Secretary Mr Wyndham in the House of Commons, characterizing Dr Long’s actions as proselytizing. The protest emphatically asserts that Dr Long, as a British subject and a member of a minority in a Roman Catholic population, should have the same freedom and protection under the law as any other citizen.
The Evangelical Alliance’s protest reflects a growing sentiment of concern and disapproval regarding the treatment of Dr Long in Limerick. The committee is particularly troubled by Resident Magistrate Mr Hickson’s handling of the case, where he dismissed charges against the Rev. Edward O’Leary. Mr Hickson’s characterization of Dr Long as an “avowed proselytizer” and his assertion that the city is disturbed by Dr Long’s proselytizing has raised serious questions about the fairness and impartiality of the judicial process.
The committee also takes issue with Chief Secretary Mr Wyndham’s comments in the House of Commons, where he expressed regret over Dr Long’s offering of free medical treatment with the intention of making converts. The committee believes that such remarks cast Dr Long in a negative light and do not reflect the principles of equal protection under the law.
In their protest, the Irish Evangelical Alliance emphasizes that Dr Long, like any British subject, should be entitled to the freedom and protection of the law, regardless of his religious beliefs or minority status within a predominantly Roman Catholic population. The protest serves as a call for justice, fairness, and equal treatment for all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations or backgrounds.
Belfast News-Letter – Tuesday 25 June 1901
