At the monthly meeting of the Limerick No. 1 District Council, chaired by Mr Cornelius McNamara, several important matters were discussed, including the occupancy of a labourer’s cottage and the condition of local graveyards. The meeting was attended by various council members and officials, with lively discussions and decisions taking place.
The council addressed a question raised by Mr Ryan of Knockatane regarding the occupancy of a labourer’s cottage, which had drawn exceptions due to the occupant being a contractor. The Chairman explained that the matter had been under consideration for the past six months, and a majority decision was made to take steps to reclaim the cottage. In response, Mr Ryan’s solicitor, Mrs. Ryan, stated that the council’s actions were legally sound but suggested the possibility of submitting a fresh notice of motion. After further conversations, no immediate action was taken on the matter.
A report was presented concerning the condition of St. Patrick’s Cemetery, with Dr Holmes, the medical officer, certifying that it was in a bad state and overcrowded. Mr McGrath expressed concern about the state of the graveyard in Castleconnell, highlighting its similar condition to St. Patrick’s. The Chairman emphasized that the caretaker received an annual payment of three pounds but noted the lack of proper supervision by council officials. He urged that without proper supervision, the council’s efforts would be in vain. The report was acknowledged as read.
Regarding the reported outbreak of typhoid fever in Cappamore, a letter from Dr Muloney, the district’s medical officer of health, was read. The letter stated that there had been no new cases for over a fortnight, and it was unlikely that new cases would arise. The installation of pasteurizing machinery at the Cappamore Creamery was noted, with hopes that it would contribute to future safety. Dr Muloney recommended that other creamery owners in the district also install and use such machinery to ensure safety. The services of the extra sub sanitary officer could now be discontinued, as the situation was under control. The letter was acknowledged and marked as read.
The council received a letter from the Local Government Board regarding the proposal to provide an additional salary of ten pounds per year to the council’s engineer, Mr O’Malley, for his involvement in maintaining burial grounds. The board expressed the opinion that the engineer’s duties related to burial grounds were covered by the salary he received under the Public Health Act. They further mentioned that during the readjustment of Mr O’Malley’s salary after the passing of the Local Government Act in 1898, his continued responsibilities regarding burial grounds were specifically brought to his attention. Mr O’Malley acknowledged the issue, stating that the condition of the burial grounds was a significant concern. He suggested the possibility of seeking extra payment if required but requested a month’s adjournment to consider the matter further. The council agreed to this course of action.
After addressing the routine business, the council proceeded to consider representations for labourers’ cottages under the eighth scheme, indicating their commitment to addressing housing needs within the district.
The meeting concluded with an atmosphere of ongoing discussion and a dedication to resolving the various issues faced by the Limerick No. 1 District Council.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 09 August 1904
