A special meeting of delegates from the Gaelic League branches in West Limerick, organized by the Rathkeale branch, took place at the Temperance Society Rooms in Rathkeale. The purpose of the meeting was to elect officers for the recently formed Coiste Ceannaire and discuss other important matters. Representatives from all the branches were present, and the proceedings were marked by unity and enthusiasm for the cause.
The appointment of Father Murphy, the esteemed and popular curate of Rathkeale, as President, and the Honorable Miss Spring Rice as Vice-President received warm applause from the attendees. Following the swift selection of officers, the meeting delved into important business matters.
Of particular interest was the upcoming Seilg (gathering) planned to be held at Knockfierna on Sunday, the 19th instant. The event was anticipated to be a tremendous success, with invitations extended to all branches in the county as well as sympathizers from outside. A captivating program was discussed, and it was confidently hoped that a large assembly would gather on the crest of the old hill to uplift the spirits of Irish nationalists and advance the Gaelic Movement’s patriotic objectives.
Rev. J. Murphy, the curate of Rathkeale, presided over the meeting. The following delegates were in attendance:
- Rathkeale: Rev. J. Murphy (cc), Messrs. T. Hennessy, and M. J. Hassett (Hon. Sec.)
- Foynes: The Honorable Miss Spring Rice, Messrs. Jackson and O’Shea
- Askeaton: Messrs. Patk Conway and J. White
- Ballysteen: Messrs. T. B. Naughton, P. Moran, and Hon. Secretary
- Adare: Messrs. K. W. Sheahan, James Naughton, and T. McGrath (Hon. Sec.)
- Pallaskeary: Mr T. Mulcany
- Ballingarry: Messrs. Michael Lysaght, H. O’Brien, and two secretaries
The election of officers proceeded smoothly. Rev. Father Murphy was unanimously elected as President of the Coiste Ceannaire, following a proposal by Mr Sheahan and a second by Mr Mulcahy. The Honorable Miss Spring Rice was appointed Vice-President upon a motion by Mr Hassett, seconded by Mr O’Shea. Mr M. J. Hassett became the honourary secretary, and Mrs Elward W. Sheahan was elected treasurer, as proposed by Mr McGrath and seconded by Mr Mulcahy.
It was decided that each branch in West Limerick would pay an annual affiliation fee of £1. Additionally, each branch would appoint three delegates to attend the monthly meetings, which were scheduled to take place on the first Sunday of every month. The secretaries of the branches were also tasked with submitting monthly reports on their activities to Rathkeale, which would subsequently be forwarded to the Central Branch.
After extensive discussions, it was determined that a Seilg would be held at Knockfierna on Sunday, the 19th instant. The proceedings would commence at two o’clock and feature speeches in support of the Gaelic Revival, performances of Celtic and Anglo-Celtic songs, as well as traditional dances such as the Eight-Hand Reel. It was anticipated that the gathering, set against the backdrop of the “fairies’ dancing ground” atop the hill, would attract a large audience. The Rathkeale Brass Band would provide spirited and patriotic music to enliven the event.
Rev. Father Murphy was appointed unanimously to liaise with the Very Reverend Father Donor, V. F., of Shanagolden, regarding the formation of branches in Shanagolden and Borrigone. Mr Lysaght proposed, Mr Sheahan seconded, and it was resolved that all branches associated with the Rathkeale Coiste Ceannaire would actively promote the purchase of Irish-made goods and encourage fellow members to support Irish manufacturers. Local shopkeepers would be urged to stock and prioritize Irish products.
Mr Hennessy proposed a resolution to give preference to individuals with knowledge of the Irish language in the allocation of positions by the County and District Councils, while other qualifications would align with requirements. Mr Jackson seconded the motion, and it was unanimously passed.
A cordial vote of thanks was extended to the Reverend Chairman, expressing gratitude for his leadership. The attendees acknowledged the energetic and enthusiastic commitment of the young priest in advancing the objectives of the Gaelic League. It was believed that the exemplary example set by the Central Branch in Rathkeale, under the guidance of Father Murphy, would inspire the peripheral branches in rural areas to follow suit.
Rev. Chairman, in his response, thanked Miss Spring Rice and other supporters of the Gaelic Revival Movement for their dedication. He pledged to do his utmost to keep the Gaelic flag flying as long as he served as a curate in Rathkeale.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 07 June 1904
