Limerick – The Limerick Harbour Commissioners convened for their fortnightly meeting on Monday, with Mr Wm L Stokes initially presiding, later succeeded by the Mayor. The gathering included members John Rassell, T. Doonellan, Alderman P. O’Brien, John Hayes, and Wm Holliday. Mr Boyd, the secretary, read the minutes from the previous meeting, which were approved.
A committee report was presented, recommending a payment of £500 to Mr Fottrel, a solicitor, in settlement of his claim for services related to the board’s opposition against the Southern Railway Amalgamation Bill. Mr Goodbody inquired if Mr Fottrel had accepted the sum, to which Mr Boyd confirmed that he had agreed. After negotiations, the amount was reduced from an original claim of around £820 to the agreed-upon £500.
The board also received a letter from the manager of the National Telephone Company seeking permission to install a pole for wire connection to the Granger office. Mr Moroney, the Harbour Engineer, suggested granting permission while also considering obtaining some benefits for the facilities provided to the company. Mr Doonellan proposed that the secretary write to the Town Clerk to inquire if the Corporation received reduced rates for similar accommodations. The board agreed to pursue this course of action.
In addition, the board discussed an application from Messrs F Spaight and Sons, Ltd, requesting permission to connect a 4-inch pipe to their new sawmills being constructed on the Dock Road. The pipe would be used for condensing purposes, and its installation would adhere to the engineer’s specifications. The application was granted, subject to an annual rent of 10s and the engineer’s approval.
Mr Patrick Carmody wrote to inquire about the availability and terms for leasing the field near the artillery barracks on Frederick Street for building purposes. Mr Holliday mentioned that the Gas Committee was interested in expanding the gas works and might require a portion of the field for a new police barracks if the existing one were to be acquired by the Gas Committee. The Mayor suggested that the Corporation might also consider the field for the construction of artisans’ dwellings. The matter was deferred, and the board decided to consult with the Town Clerk regarding the Corporation’s intentions.
A letter addressing a dispute among the Western pilots was referred to the Pilot Committee. Alderman O’Brien expressed the view that the system should be amalgamated to avoid recurring complaints. Mr Holliday raised the issue of imported goods being taken to bonded stores for assessment. He proposed the establishment of a lock-up shed at the docks where authorities could retain a portion (one-fifth or one-tenth) of the goods for taxation, allowing traders to receive the remainder directly at their premises without delay. The board agreed to seek the input of traders before making a decision.
The meeting adjourned, with further discussions and actions to be taken on the matters presented.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 29 November 1904
