The monthly meeting of the East Limerick Committee of the Irish Land and Labour Association was held on Sunday, 26th June, at Nicker. The meeting focused on discussions surrounding the Labourers Bill and featured speeches by prominent figures such as John Osborne and Michael Conway.
Delegates from various branches of the association were present, including representatives from Pallasgrean, Kilteely, Dromkeen, Murroe, Herbertstown, and Bruff. John O’Dwyer and J. Duggan presided over their respective branches.
John Osborne, taking the chair, delivered a passionate address to the attendees. He highlighted the recent letter by Mr J. E. Redmond, which called upon the workers of Ireland to voice their opposition to the Chief Secretary’s deceptive tactics. Osborne criticized the government’s treatment of the labouring population and emphasized the importance of justice for Irish workers.
Osborne expressed dissatisfaction with the Chief Secretary’s speech, dismissing it as a mere mockery of the labouring population. He accused the Cabinet Ministry of planning to abandon the Irish Labourers’ Bill, but warned that the workingmen of Ireland would rise against such trickery. He condemned the broken pledges and disgraceful behavior of English statesmen, particularly targeting George Wyndham, the Chief Secretary.
Referencing historical attempts to oppress Irish labourers, Osborne invoked Lord Edward’s spirit and claimed that he would vehemently protest against his supposed relative, George Wyndham. He urged all workers to unite and prepare themselves to protect their families, protest against the government’s cruelty, and demand justice for their rights.
Michael Conway then read a series of resolutions, including gratitude towards the Irish Parliamentary Party for their support of the Labourers Bill and a call for increased membership in the Irish Land and Labour Association. The resolutions also criticized the exclusion of workers from certain council meetings and called for the implementation of labourers’ cottages before winter.
The meeting concluded with the decision to hold the next gathering in Murroe on Sunday, 17th July, with hopes of full representation from all branches in East Limerick.
In addition to the meeting report, the British and Irish Steam Packet Company’s circular tours were highlighted. The company, known for its large vessels and comfortable sailings between Dublin and London, announced their schedule of sailings and holiday tours for the year. The circular highlighted the amenities provided on board and the various ports of call, including Falmouth, Penzance, Plymouth, and Southampton.
The company also offered special excursion tickets for tours between Dublin and the Channel Islands and France. Passengers were encouraged to obtain further information at the company’s Dublin office at North Wall.
Overall, the Nicker meeting of the Irish Land and Labour Association showcased the organization’s dedication to advocating for the rights and welfare of Irish workers, with passionate speeches and resolutions addressing key issues affecting labourers across the country.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 05 July 1904
