The ongoing activities of Irish agitators have led to the expansion of the list of counties proclaimed under the Crimes Act, which now includes the county boroughs of Dublin and Limerick. While some have made a great deal of the proclamation, viewing it as an indication of martial law and arbitrary action, in reality, the proclamation empowers the Crown to implement certain legal measures in these areas without depriving residents of their just rights.

Specifically, the Crown can now seek trials with special juries, facilitate changes of venue to ensure justice, and, in certain locations, apply the summary jurisdiction clauses of the Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1887. These measures serve to make it less likely that guilty parties will evade justice, while the true liberty of the subjects remains unaffected.

In fact, similar provisions are in place in London, and even more stringent enactments have been implemented in Scotland, emphasizing that the proclamation should not be seen as a blight on Limerick and Dublin, but rather as a necessary step towards ensuring justice and upholding the law in these regions.

Taunton Courier and Western Advertiser – Wednesday 10 September 1902