Limerick, – The Limerick Branch of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children held its annual meeting at the Athersum on Saturday afternoon. The Mayor of Limerick, esteemed members of the community, and distinguished guests were present to show their support for the society’s vital mission.
Among the notable attendees were the City High Sheriff, Mr Jas Fiyon, Lord and Lady Clarina, Sir Charles and Lady Barrington, Sir Thomas Cleeve, Reverend Father Cregan of St. Michael’s Church, Major and Miss Bunbury, Sir Vincent and Lady Nash, and other esteemed personalities.
The Mayor addressed the gathering, commending the exceptional work undertaken by the society and expressing gratitude to the magistrates for their unwavering support. In the absence of Miss Dwane, the Secretary of the branch, Mr Rodden read the annual report. The report detailed the society’s activities from January 1903 to May 1904, under the diligent efforts of Inspector Daly, later succeeded by Inspector Fenuell.
During this period, the branch investigated 146 cases of children’s rights violations, and in an overwhelming majority of 145 cases, the interventions by the society were found to be just and necessary. These cases involved the welfare of 467 children, comprising 252 boys and 215 girls. Remarkably, only ten cases, less than seven per cent of the total, required prosecution. The Society prided itself on achieving its goals without resorting to legal proceedings, and it was heartening to witness such a minimal need for prosecutions.
The report expressed heartfelt gratitude to the treasurers and the police for their cooperation, and special appreciation was extended to Miss Dwane, the branch’s honourable secretary. The meeting adopted the report with acclamation, thanks to Sir Charles Barrington and the High Sheriff.
Father Cregan and Mr Hastings, solicitor, proposed a resolution expressing satisfaction with the exceptional work done by the Limerick Branch and seeking continued public support and sympathy.
A resolution was also passed to thank the dedicated ladies and gentlemen who collected funds for the branch throughout the year, including Mr Hamilton Brown, who generously contributed hatpins to benefit the society’s endeavours.
Re-elections were conducted for esteemed positions, with the Countess of Dunraven retaining her role as President, and Lady Clarina and Lady Monteagle as Vice-Presidents, alongside the esteemed committee.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Mayor for his gracious presence, expressing admiration for his dedication to the cause.
The annual gathering of the Limerick Branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children reaffirmed the community’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being and happiness of the young ones, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 17 January 1905
