Abbeyfeale, a town in west Limerick, is grappling with concerns about the free importation of Canadian and Argentine cattle into England. While some argue in favour of easing the rules for the sake of English consumers and dealers, local farmers believe it would be disastrous for their livelihoods. In an area where there are no landlords left, farmers depend on the sale of dairy products and young stock to meet their financial obligations.
Farmers in this region heavily rely on income from the creameries, selling butter or milk, and from their young stock sales. Calves and yearlings are particularly sought after at fairs, and they contribute significantly to their revenue. However, with the increasing importation of foreign store cattle by Canadian and South American grazing speculators, the market will be flooded with competition, leaving the local farmers in dire straits.
During times of agricultural depression, such as the previous year, the sale of young stock has been crucial in sustaining the farmers and preventing them from falling into debt. The proposed influx of foreign cattle threatens to block one of their essential income streams and destabilize their financial security.
While there may be broader reasons for supporting the free importation of cattle, the farmers in Abbeyfeale and similar areas find it difficult to be entirely self-sacrificing. They are grateful for the support from Canadian statesmen advocating for Home Rule for Ireland, but they cannot overlook the importance of their young stock sales. They fear that even under an Irish Parliament, they would oppose such a proposition that threatens their livelihoods.
Abbeyfeale, despite being an important part of Ireland, differs from other areas due to its freedom from landlordism. Consequently, the arguments supporting the free opening of English ports to bring land value to its normal equivalent do not apply here. While the region does not oppose the significant issue of purchasing most of the country’s land, they cannot help but be concerned about the potential impact on their local farming community.
In conclusion, the farmers of Abbeyfeale and neighboring districts urge careful consideration before taking any steps to relax the rules on importing foreign cattle. They seek to safeguard their income from the sale of young stock and protect their financial stability amid an already challenging agricultural landscape.
Kerry News – Wednesday 25 January 1905
