In a compelling address delivered to the members of the Limerick Industrial Association, Mr Charles Dawson emphasized the significance of reviving Irish industries through a national approach. Mr Dawson’s profound understanding of the subject matter, coupled with his involvement in the 1882 National Exhibition, grants him a unique authority to discuss “Present and Possible Irish Industries.” His presentation effectively refutes the notion propagated by internationalists that Ireland lacks the resources to sustain a purely national endeavour, presenting concrete facts and figures to support his argument.
One of the claims made by supporters of the International Exhibition is that existing Irish industries are so scarce that they would barely fill a single room. Mr Dawson astutely exposes the fallacy of this assertion by highlighting an extensive list of thriving Irish industries, spanning fifty-five centres and encompassing one hundred and seventy branches. Such comprehensive representation provides a solid foundation for a truly representative National Exhibition, which would yield practical and long-lasting benefits for Irish industries. This is not a speculative proposal but a tangible opportunity. The Irish National Exhibition of 1882 stands as a testament to the value of a purely Irish venture. Despite being executed under challenging circumstances and tight timelines, it delivered lasting and substantial benefits, most notably the revival of the Irish woollen trade.
“At the opening of the exhibition,” explained Mr Dawson, “there were only about a dozen woollen mills in Ireland. Today, there are over one hundred and thirty. We have established a staple trade for the South and West of Ireland, a prosperous rival to the staple trade of the North.” This irrefutable fact carries more weight than the misleading statements often employed by opponents of a National Exhibition. What was achieved in 1882 can not only be replicated today but can be significantly improved upon. The current climate is more favourable, and the spirit of self-reliance is stronger than ever. Local industrial associations are emerging throughout the country, actively contributing to the cause. Furthermore, influential figures in the Irish industrial movement are wholeheartedly endorsing the National Exhibition. Their extensive experience has taught them that showcasing Irish products through a genuine exhibition is more beneficial to the interests of workers than a so-called International Exhibition. The latter, while attracting tourists to our shores, is more likely to hinder rather than enhance the home industries that demand our foremost attention and protection.
The promoters of the National Exhibition are calling upon the people of Ireland to participate in this noble endeavour. It is a task worthy of their utmost dedication. Those who perceive an exhibition as a means of national progress, rather than a mere spectacle, will undoubtedly contribute their time, financial resources, and unwavering personal support to ensure its success. The exhibition’s triumph rests primarily on popular backing, as eloquently stated by Mr Dawson: “The people must help through honest labour and hard work; they must share the necessary sacrifices, viewing themselves as participants in the significant work of the entire nation to establish and nurture the Industrial Association of Ireland, a structure that will endure for all time.”
Dublin Evening Telegraph – Thursday 07 April 1904
