During a meeting of the Limerick Corporation, Alderman Daly sought permission to discuss an article that he considered important. However, some members suggested reading the article first to determine whether it should be discussed at all. Alderman Daly insisted on reading two articles from the paper, one titled “Coming Municipal Electors” and the other titled “What Might be Done.” He specifically objected to the latter article and wanted to address its spirit.
Alderman Long proposed not discussing the article that night, stating that it would be a waste of time. Alderman Daly and Mr Dalton, however, supported discussing the article. Alderman Daly wanted to refute the attack made on him by Judge Adams and the newspaper mentioned in the article, which he referred to as a “rotten rag.” Alderman Long suggested proceeding with the ordinary business on the agenda.
After further debate, it was decided to wait until the agenda had been cleared before discussing the article. Alderman Daly requested the opportunity to analyze the article and then come to a conclusion in defence of themselves and their people. He criticized the newspaper, alleging that it was acting against the interests of the city and was owned by a firm known as Messrs Cleeve Bros, suggesting that Mr Cleeve may be seeking to become Mayor in the future. Mr Stokes clarified that while Messrs Cleeve Bros may be involved with the newspaper, they were not the sole proprietors.
Alderman Long protested against personal remarks and mentioning individuals’ names. Alderman Daly defended his statements and insisted on discussing the motives behind the article. At one point, Alderman Long left the council chamber in protest. The Mayor urged Alderman Daly to deal with the matter in a fair spirit and refrain from mentioning individuals’ names.
Alderman Daly continued to express his concerns and criticized the Chronicle for alleged bias. He mentioned Judge Adams’ recent remarks about fraud and forgery attempts to manipulate the city’s election. He challenged the newspaper and expressed his respect for certain city gentlemen. He also mentioned his upcoming election campaign in the Irishtown area.
Mr Dalton addressed statements made about him in relation to the voters’ lists and denied any wrongdoing, challenging a prosecution. He expressed his belief that working-class individuals could not attend the Revision Sessions without being ridiculed.
The Council eventually adjourned, and the discussion on the article was postponed.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 11 October 1904
