In a moment of economic significance and cross-border cooperation, the annual meeting of the Irish Church Missions in Manchester captured the attention of both Irish and British citizens. Held with much anticipation, the meeting brought together prominent figures from both countries, including Mr C. Duckworth who presided over the event. Among the distinguished attendees were representatives from Limerick, led by the esteemed Dr Lang, who passionately advocated for fair treatment and religious freedom in Ireland. The meeting showcased the growing interest in Irish affairs and underscored the importance of open dialogue and understanding between the nations. As the discussions unfolded, the future of Irish Church Missions and its mission in both Ireland and beyond became a focal point of deliberation.

Benburb House,

Lenzie,

March 11th, 1905.

Dear Sir,

I am pleased as an Irishman and proud as a Glasgow citizen that once again an Irish firm has secured a contract worth over £1,000 and it has been freely given by our Town Council to the city of Sarsfield. However, this time there was not unanimous agreement in allowing the contract to go to Ireland, unlike last year. I would like to offer a friendly hint to the Limerick Company regarding this matter. Our Glasgow Corporation firmly upholds “Free Trade Principles” with only “Trades Union” regulations as a modification.

Last year, I publicly stated that if the Limerick Company wished to retain our contracts for police clothing, its factory must adhere to these regulations. I went over to Limerick, consulted the Trades’ Council of that city, which, to its credit, though not entirely satisfied with some matters, pronounced the shop fair within Trades Union rules. Accompanied by an experienced clerk from our Municipal staff and in the company of the Mayor and a few local gentlemen, we inspected the back of the factory and were able to report satisfactorily, resulting in the contract being marked as satisfactory by our Council.

However, a few weeks ago, when this new contract was being considered, I received a letter from a gentleman in Limerick who reported that the wages of some of the workers were too low for a decent living. It was not asserted that Union regulations were being violated, but I know that many poor workers in this trade across all British cities are paid an outrageously low wage that is a disgrace to our civilization. I have dedicated much of my life to a significant reform in labour conditions, and it is now ripening into fruition.

It aims to alter the whole condition of labour, and I firmly believe that misery’s sons and daughters will one day sing in their lowly dwellings when plenty and fairness reign. I could not see any advantage in favoring low wages in a British city just because low wages persist in an Irish city. Moreover, life in Limerick of the ‘stitch-stitch class,’ although hard, has both a healthier moral and physical atmosphere than in London, Leeds, Bristol, or even in Glasgow, though we are making progress.

My friend in Limerick seemed not to desire to press the matter further, and the Trades’ Council in Glasgow, armed with the facts, supported my opinion through its chairman, Councillor Boyd. However, opposition arose in the City Council when our minutes came up for approval. There was talk of “sweating,” but my report from last year had already silenced such accusations concerning Trade Union Rules. Nevertheless, Bailie Shaw-Maxwell skillfully launched a fierce personal attack and demanded a delay. He was supported by Councillor Scott Gilison, who rejected our right to send away a contract from Glasgow during a time of distress among our own citizens.

A bitter controversy ensued, and accusations were openly hurled at Bailie Shaw-Maxwell, suggesting he was being influenced. Bailie O’Hara openly declared that the attack was “anti-Irish,” akin to the old cry, “No Irish need apply.” To the credit of the Council, the vote was 42 to 11, and of the 11, only 6 were seeking further delays. However, my aim is to once again remind the Company and any Limerick public figures with influence that if the charge of “sweating” or injustice is established against the Company, no contract will be accepted by our Corporation.

I sincerely hope that the Company will consult the “Trades Council of Limerick” regarding the points in dispute. Our Corporation, governing the affairs of the largest city in the Empire, consistently consults the Trades Council of Glasgow in all matters pertaining to it. I have signed the contract for the Corporation, securing it this time. I sincerely hope that the Company and the workers can come to an agreement.

Yours faithfully,

John Ferguson.

Dublin Leader – Saturday 25 March 1905