In the city of Limerick, a concerning issue lurks beneath the surface. It involves the unscrupulous activities of certain publicans who prioritize their greed for profits over the social and moral repercussions of their actions. Father Creagh, an influential figure in the community, has taken a resolute stand against these individuals by delivering two impassioned addresses—one to the magistrates and another to the St. John’s Division of the Arch-Confraternity of the Holy Family at the Redemptorist Church.
By shedding light on the good and bad bungs of Limerick, Father Creagh encourages his audience to differentiate between the two types of publicans that inhabit the city. He paints a vivid picture, highlighting the unwanted presence of a darker element in Limerick’s drinking culture, hidden beneath the more decent and law-abiding publicans.
Father Creagh says that he doesn’t intend to denounce all who sell alcohol, acknowledging that some are good, God-fearing individuals, adhering to both divine and earthly laws while conducting their businesses. However, it is the other type of publican, with no conscience and no scruples, who Father Creagh considers the real enemies of God, man, and country.
Father Creagh’s frustration stems from the devastating consequences that the predatory tactics of these conscienceless publicans have on the lives of those who fall victim to excessive drinking. When a man becomes inebriated and runs out of money, these publicans supply him with more alcohol on credit. This further plunges the individual into debt, while also neglecting the well-being of his wife and children.
This practice not only violates the law of God and man but also showcases the lack of empathy and compassion exhibited by these publicans. Father Creagh asserts that there is a unique type of wickedness to men who are driven by greed and willing to ruin families in the present and future without hesitation.
Father Creagh’s address also highlights that the law binds publicans not to serve alcohol to those already intoxicated. Despite this decree, these unprincipled publicans continue to sell drinks to individuals in an advanced state of inebriation, once again demonstrating their utter disregard for the laws.
To address this issue, Father Creagh suggests that stringent application of legal penalties is the only solution to reform the behavior of these unscrupulous publicans. Merely appealing to their non-existent conscience will not produce the desired outcomes.
As a community, the people of Limerick must take Father Creagh’s message to heart and work together to eliminate this dark element from their city. This will involve raising awareness, fostering a supportive environment, and ensuring that justice is served to those who engage in such unsavory practices.
It is crucial to remember that the issue of excessive drinking and the actions of the corrupt publicans do not just affect the individuals involved, but also have lasting consequences on their families and the society at large. Limerick, known for its rich history and culture, deserves better than to have these predatory activities tarnish its reputation.
In conclusion, Father Creagh’s passionate addresses serve as a powerful call to action to the people of Limerick to address this pressing issue and transform their city into a safe, prosperous, and morally upright space for all its citizens. Only through collective efforts and unwavering dedication can Limerick expel the darkness generated by unscrupulous publicans and reaffirm its identity as a shining example of Irish heritage and character.
Dublin Leader – Saturday 11 October 1902
