In a distressing turn of events during last night’s Corporation meeting, a controversial incident unfolded, casting a shadow over the proceedings. The Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, a prominent figure in Limerick, had previously been unanimously elected to serve on the Committee of the Limerick Lunatic Asylum during a prior sitting. However, a letter was read aloud from his lordship during the recent meeting, expressing gratitude for the courtesy extended to him but regretfully declining the position, citing an inability to fulfil the associated duties. In his letter, the Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer proposed that one of the city’s priests should be elected in his stead.
It was at this point that the situation took an unexpected turn. Mr Ralph Nash, a member of the Council, put forth the Very Rev. Andrew Murphy, the distinguished President of St. Munchin’s College, as a candidate to fill the vacancy left by the Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer. Father Murphy appeared to be a consensus choice, and it seemed he would be elected unanimously to the position.
However, the tranquillity of the moment was shattered when Alderman Daly, a member of the Council, abruptly proposed an alternative candidate: Rev. P. F. Kavanagh, O.F.M., renowned for his work as the author of the “Insurrection of ’98.” The unexpected introduction of this alternative candidate led to a divisive vote within the Council.
Except for a few members who appeared to blindly follow Alderman Daly’s lead, the majority of the Council saw through this manoeuvre. The vote ultimately resulted in the election of Father Murphy, who secured 25 votes to Father Kavanagh’s 8. It became evident to many that Father Kavanagh had been unwittingly embroiled in a political agenda driven by Alderman Daly.
In an effort to shed light on the situation and clarify any potential misunderstandings, an investigation was undertaken. We reached out to Father Kavanagh for his perspective on the matter. In an interview conducted this evening, Father Kavanagh confirmed that neither Alderman Daly nor any other individual had sought his permission to nominate him for the Asylum Committee or any other Committee, for that matter. He expressed his complete surprise and lack of prior knowledge about the matter until it was brought up during the Council meeting.
This revelation raises questions about the motives behind Alderman Daly’s sudden proposal of Father Kavanagh and the circumstances surrounding his nomination. It is essential for the public to be informed of the true facts surrounding this controversial proceeding, which has left many in Limerick perplexed and concerned about the integrity of the Council’s decision-making process. As the details continue to emerge, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and fairness in civic affairs, ensuring that the public’s trust in their elected representatives remains intact.
Northants Evening Telegraph – Saturday 08 February 1902
