The Municipal Technical Committee held its fortnightly meeting yesterday evening, with Mr W. EsriLL, B.E., presiding. Other attendees included Miss Doyie, Very Rev A. Murphy, Rev Brother Nolan, Messrs M. Murphy, T. J. Cronin, and J. Shanahan, T.C., along with the Secretary, Mr K. P. O’Dowd, and Assistant Secretary, Mr F. M’Namara.

The minutes of the Executive Committee meeting on the 9th were read, highlighting a conference where it was decided that Mr Neville, representing the operative union, should allow the teacher of painting and decorating at the schools to pursue his trade outside. Father Murphy noted that this arrangement would eventually lead to the selection of skilled boys from the schools.

Regarding the proposal to acquire the house at 70 George Street, in addition to the existing building at 69 George Street for teaching purposes, the Department has given its sanction. Additionally, the proposal to compensate the current tenant with £30 for improvements made in the house was approved. Mr O’Dowd informed the committee that Mr Welply was eager to finalize the arrangements before Christmas.

In response to a communication from Mr Adams of Dublin, who expressed regret at being unable to deliver an address on technical subjects at present due to office work, Miss Doyle clarified that the idea was not to have Mr Adams himself give lectures but to seek his assistance in organizing lectures on relevant technical topics. The committee agreed to communicate with Mr Welply and indicate their willingness to expend the £30 for improvements, provided they find the proposed changes justifiable.

The committee discussed the suggestion to add another evening weekly for advanced chemistry instruction. Dr Atkinson, the chemistry teacher, inquired whether he would be compensated additionally for this. Several committee members pointed out that Dr Atkinson was already appointed as the chemistry teacher for the session at a fixed salary of £150 per year, and as he had committed to devote all his time to the office, the committee was not prepared to entertain his application for extra payment.

It was proposed to apply to the Department for a course of lectures more directly related to the work carried out in the technical schools. The committee decided to write to the Department promptly to seek inclusion in the lecture series.

The meeting adjourned for further deliberations.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 13 December 1904