Tralee, March 9, 1904 – The Abbeyfeale Petty Sessions saw a diverse range of cases presented before the honourable Messrs James Woulfe Flanagan, R.M., W.L. Creaghe Harnett, and Mr J. Nolan. Here are the highlights of the proceedings:
In the case of David Leahy from Knocknagoshel, he was summoned for possessing an unmarked car and allowing his underage son to handle a horse and cart on the streets of Abbeyfeale. However, due to uncertainty surrounding car ownership, the court decided to dismiss both charges against Mr Leahy.
Denis Mulcahy of Tournafulla faced a charge of selling substandard whiskey, which was discovered to be a result of an inadvertent mistake. It was explained that the whiskey became mixed with water in a jug, causing its quality to diminish. Given Mr Mulcahy’s esteemed reputation and the absence of prior charges, the court chose to let him off under the first offender’s Act.
A young girl named Nora Cronin from Ardydonegan stood accused of obtaining goods under false pretences from Mr E. G. Stack’s draper store. However, after considering the testimony of the child’s grandmother and her previously unblemished character, the court opted to release her under the First Offenders Act. Nevertheless, her uncle, Mr Mchl Cronin, was obliged to enter into a bond of £10 to ensure her appearance for judgment if required within the next year.
William Galvin, a water bailiff hailing from Abbeyfeale, sought the forfeiture of a fishing rod discovered near Duagh. Galvin, in collabouration with fellow water bailiff John Sheahan, encountered three individuals near the riverbank. Two of the men seemed to be keeping a lookout for any approaching water bailiffs, while the third was engaged in fishing. In their haste to escape, the men left behind the fishing rod. The court, in compliance with an order from the Board of Conservators in Limerick, granted Mr Galvin’s application for forfeiture under section 2 of the 69 Victoria, Chapter 48.
In addition to the cases, discussions arose concerning the late opening of the fishing season. Mr Nolan expressed regret that the season began on May 1st, suggesting that an earlier start would be more favourable. Mr McCarthy proposed serving a notice to the Commissioners, highlighting the disadvantages of the late season, and holding meetings to advocate for an earlier opening. The magistrates agreed that an earlier start would be beneficial due to the river’s spawning patterns. Various opinions were exchanged, and it was suggested that increased engagement from anglers in Listowel would help advance the cause.
Several other cases were settled or adjourned, involving individuals such as John Aherme, a publican fined for a breach of the licensing act, and Timothy Connell, who lodged a complaint of assault against Michael Wrenn and John Downey, both bakers.
The Abbeyfeale Petty Sessions concluded with Mr Flanagan assuring the parties involved that he would carefully consider the case before reaching a verdict. Acknowledging Mr Mulcahy’s concern for his reputation, the court agreed to adjourn the case for a fortnight.
The next session is scheduled to convene in the near future, continuing the pursuit of justice in Abbeyfeale and its surrounding areas.
Kerry News – Wednesday 09 March 1904
