The Department overseeing technical instruction in Ireland has raised concerns with its approach to the efforts made by the Limerick Committee in organizing local school affairs. The resignation of Mr Quick, the principal who also taught Practical Mathematics, necessitated the election of a successor. During Mr Quick’s tenure, the Department did not object to one officer holding both positions. However, their stance has now changed, favouring separate and distinct roles.

The Department does not raise objections regarding salary payment arrangements. However, when the local committee proposed increasing the salary of the teacher in the tailoring class, on the condition that he also instruct boys at the Industrial School, the Department adamantly rejected the proposal. The Department’s withholding of consent for Mr O’Dowd’s appointment appears to be ironic and undermines the proper management of technical instruction. Mr O’Dowd, an Associate of the Royal College of Science, is highly qualified, which the Department does not deny. Yet, they unjustifiably draw a line due to his Irish heritage. This new benevolence displayed by the Department must be challenged. When an Irishman demonstrates his ability to teach in our technical schools, he deserves preference. Mr O’Dowd is fully qualified, but the Department uses flimsy logic to raise unnecessary obstacles.

The Limerick Committee aims to secure the most efficient teachers while considering budgetary constraints. However, economists in the Department reject a small increase for deserving teachers who undertake extra work, yet advocate for the creation of a new and presently unnecessary office.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 20 September 1904