At Limerick Quarter Sessions on Friday, Mr Stephen Tubridy, a master baker, sued the president, secretary, and six members of the local bakers’ society for £50, claiming compensation for an alleged conspiracy and illegal picketing affecting his trade and business. The dispute stemmed from Mr Tubridy’s introduction of new ovens and machinery, which led him to lock out his employees.

Since this action, his business has been picketed, and the bakers’ society members have approached customers in an attempt to persuade them against purchasing his bread. Judge Adams ruled that the defendants’ actions were illegal and charged them with £5 in damages after assessment by the jury. This peculiar case demonstrates the conflicts that can arise with the implementation of new technologies and their impacts on employment.

Gloucester Citizen – Saturday 06 June 1903