Limerick Harbour Board Holds Fortnightly Meeting

Limerick, Monday – The Limerick Harbour Commissioners convened for their fortnightly meeting on Monday, with Mr M. Donnelly presiding. Among the attendees were Alderman Joyce, MP, Mr John F Power, Alderman O’Brien, Mr Wm Holliday, Mr Thomas Donuellan, Mr John Hayes, Alderman O’Mara, Mr John Boyd (Secretary), Mr Moroney (Harbour Engineer), and Mr Fitzwaurice (Harbour Master).

During the meeting, the board addressed several important matters. A letter from the Town Clerk brought to their attention the agreement with the National Telephone Company. The company had been given the privilege of laying wires under certain streets at half the current rate for subscribers, in addition to paying a valuation fee for poles, manholes, and other equipment. However, Mr Moroney clarified that the company had not granted any reduction in charges to the Harbour Board. Instead, they had agreed to pay a charge of 1 shilling for each pole and stay. Mr Donnellan sought clarification on whether the board was obliged to provide them with accommodation, to which Mr Moroney responded that it was merely for the convenience of traders and not compulsory. Given the agreement in place, the board decided to maintain the current terms until its expiry in twelve months.

Messrs Spaight and Sons expressed their gratitude to the board for allowing them to install a four-inch pipe between the dock basin and their premises. Mr Moroney emphasized the need for a waste pipe to ensure proper water flow.

The board also discussed a letter from the Dublin Port and Docks Board, inquiring if Limerick Harbour Board would appoint delegates to a conference aimed at reconstituting the Irish Lights Board. Alderman Joyce recommended sending delegates to represent Limerick’s interests. Mr Boyd had previously reached out to the Irish Lights Board secretary to understand their constitution and subjectivity, but he had not received a full response. Alderman Joyce stressed the importance of supporting Mr Field, MP, in his efforts to ensure representation for various harbour authorities in Ireland on the Irish Lights Board, as local boards were best equipped to understand lighting and navigation needs. Alderman O’Mara seconded the resolution, and it was unanimously passed.

A complaint from Captain Evans of the ss Galtee was addressed, where he reported difficulties in obtaining a pilot at Grass Island on December 1st despite repeatedly blowing the whistle. However, Alderman Joyce clarified that the vessel suffered no loss or delay and explained that adverse weather conditions prevented the Limerickmen from reaching the island with their gear promptly. The matter was referred to the Pilot Committee for further investigation.

The Town Clerk informed the board about the possibility of building houses on Frederick Street space, indicating that it was likely they would secure a loan for the project. The Mayor confirmed that unexpended balances could be used for this purpose. On Mr Power’s motion, the board agreed to request the Corporation to sign the lease for the plot.

Mr Denis Madden of Clare Street sought permission to place six upholstered pleasure boats for public use in ferrying activities. Mr Power clarified that the board had no authority to prevent such a request, and permission was granted.

In the interest of safety, the board approved, on Alderman Joyce’s motion, rough punching of kerbing on a portion of the docks.

The meeting concluded, with further discussions adjourned for future sessions.