The Rathkeale Quarter Sessions were opened by Judge Adams, who presided over the proceedings. Only one case was scheduled for trial during the session. The defendant, John Manning, was charged under an Act that was described as beneficial to both Ireland and England. Manning was referred to as a habitual drunkard and was also accused of assaulting his mother.

According to Judge Adams, habitual drunkards were sent to the Ennis Inebriate Home, and when the wind blew over from Ennis carrying the scent of alcohol, some of the guests there would open their mouths in anticipation (resulting in laughter). However, due to the fact that the people in the Limerick area were total abstainers (causing further laughter), such a facility would never be established there.

Since Manning did not appear in court, his solicitor, Mr Laffan, stated that he understood Manning had gone to America. Furthermore, Manning’s mother did not wish to press charges against him.

Another case involved Michael and Thomas Carey, who appealed against the decision of the magistrates. The magistrates had sentenced them to five weeks imprisonment for assaulting Ed. Sweeny on January 20th. The assault was said to stem from ill feelings that arose during the election of a guardian several years prior. The appeal resulted in the affirmation of the conviction, but the penalty was reduced to a fine of 5 shillings. The accused were also bound to keep the peace for three years.

The last case mentioned was Sheehan v Foynes Harbour Commissioners. It was an appeal against a fine of £2 imposed on the appellant for disobeying the orders of the Harbour Master regarding the removal of his vessel at Foynes. The defence argued that the order couldn’t be followed because the vessel had run aground due to severe weather conditions. The fine was ultimately reduced to half a shilling.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 19 April 1904