Limerick, Monday – Captain Shawe-Taylor, an esteemed speaker, delivered an enthralling lecture on “Irish Industrial Reform” at the Theatre Royal on Friday, St. Patrick’s Day. The event was organized under the auspices of the Limerick Industrial Association, and attendees were treated to delightful Irish airs by the St. Joseph’s Industrial School Band before the lecture commenced.
Notable apologies for non-attendance were read out from distinguished figures such as Lord and Lady Emly, Sir Charles and Lady Barrington, and several prominent community leaders.
Captain Shawe-Taylor expressed his joy at being in Limerick again and recounted fond memories of the city from his earlier days. He acknowledged the recent awakening throughout Ireland, where the focus shifted from a policy of destruction to one of construction, aimed at building up the nation.
The Industrial Revival was discussed as a crucial movement that could unite people from all regions, classes, and creeds. Captain Shawe-Taylor emphasized the importance of bridging sectarian animosity for social and industrial progress.
Addressing Limerick’s building trade, the lecturer pointed out that tenement houses were in poor condition, but the Corporation’s efforts to improve them faced obstacles due to higher building costs compared to other cities. He urged the industry to introspect and rectify the situation.
Regarding landlords, he called for them to invest their proceeds from land sales in the country’s development, citing Kilkenny’s success in raising funds for a woolen factory.
He urged the support of Irish-made goods and suggested a new trade mark “Made in Ireland” to promote Irish products both locally and internationally.
Captain Shawe-Taylor advocated the need for Technical Institutes and emphasized the importance of harnessing the power of the Shannon River for industrial growth. He appealed for support to overcome objections to the Shannon Development Scheme.
He lauded Father Cregan’s efforts in fostering industry without external assistance and called on the people of Limerick to join the Industrial Association and work together to elevate Ireland among civilized nations.
At the end of the lecture, a vote of thanks was passed to Captain Shawe-Taylor for his enlightening and inspiring discourse on Irish Industrial Reform.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 21 March 1905
