On St. Patrick’s Day, a highly successful meeting was held at the Temperance Hall in Abbeyfeale for the purpose of establishing a branch of the Gaelic League. The hall was filled with attendees, including several school teachers from the town and surrounding area. The meeting was presided over by Reverend Father Casey, P.P., who received a warm welcome. He expressed his support for the establishment of a branch of the Gaelic League, emphasizing the importance of speaking and understanding the Irish language to be truly patriotic Irish individuals.
Mr Fionan MacColium, who received applause upon taking the stage, addressed the gathering in both Gaelic and English. He expressed his pleasure at seeing the enthusiastic crowd from West Limerick, noting that the district had a history of vigorously and successfully taking up various movements. He encouraged all the Gaelic people of West Limerick to embrace the Irish language, as it was an essential part of their identity. He highlighted the significance of St. Patrick’s Day as a fitting occasion to establish a branch of the Gaelic League, as the Irish language was the same tongue spoken by St. Patrick centuries ago when he preached the Christian faith.
MacColium argued that the Irish language played a crucial role in preserving the nation’s independence and cultural heritage. He emphasized that great nations around the world possessed two distinct characteristics: national independence and a national language. He expressed concern that the Irish language had faced significant challenges in recent history, such as the devastating famine of 1847 and the establishment of the national education system, which neglected the Irish and aimed to denationalize the Irish people. MacColium criticised the English press for their lack of sympathy towards the Gael during difficult times.
He acknowledged that in the past, there was no need for a national movement to preserve the Irish language since it was widely spoken throughout Ireland. However, circumstances had changed, and it was now essential to actively support the Gaelic League and the revitalization of the language. MacColium urged attendees to go beyond mere sympathy and provide active support for the Irish language movement. He highlighted the practical benefits of learning Irish, including its increasing relevance in business and educational institutions. MacColium commended the progress made by the Gaelic League, with various institutions and organizations showing support and promoting the language.
In conclusion, MacColium called upon the attendees to fully embrace the spirit of the Gaelic League and actively participate in its activities. He emphasized that the preservation of the Irish language depended on the commitment and involvement of individuals. MacColium expressed his hope that, with the success of the Irish language movement, Ireland would regain its status as a sovereign nation. The meeting concluded with the enrollment of numerous members, and classes were scheduled to commence on Monday night at the local school.
Kerry News – Wednesday 23 March 1904
