(From Our Reporter) – At the latest meeting of the Croom District Council, chaired by Mr John Coleman, several important matters were discussed. Mr James Costelloe raised concerns about the recent Poor Law Conference in Limerick. According to him, despite appointing four delegates from Croom, including Mr Connolly, Mr Keeffe, and himself, none of them was given the opportunity to speak. He expressed astonishment at the audacity of delegates from other areas who advocated for amalgamation, even though it could have severe consequences for the people of Croom. Mr Costelloe and Mr Connolly had prepared a report on the matter, which they read to the board as a protest.
The report accused the Commissioners of merely going through the motions and taking selective evidence that aligned with their pre-determined preference for amalgamation. It also highlighted that delegates from other areas were given ample time to speak, while those opposing amalgamation from Croom and Kilmallock had to appeal to the chairman for their chance to be heard. The report urged resistance to any attempts to dissolve the Croom Union, as it could have detrimental effects on the district. The financial working of the Croom Union was compared favourably to other unions, and the report emphasized that amalgamation may not reduce taxation or alleviate pauperism effectively.
Mr O’Keefe, one of the appointed delegates, expressed his frustration at being brought to the conference but not given a chance to speak. He felt the Inspector had left him without a say on the matter. The Chairman acknowledged the uncalled-for treatment of the Croom delegates and criticized the people who provided evidence without considering the specific concerns of the Croom Union.
The Chairman proposed that the report drafted by Mr Costelloe and Mr Connolly should be adopted as the protest of the entire board. The report was then adopted by the Council, signalling their opposition to the amalgamation proposal.
The issue of union amalgamation remains contentious, with differing views on its potential impact on Croom and its citizens.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 13 December 1904
