The West Limerick Branch of the Irish Agricultural Association held a representative meeting at the Munster Hotel in Newcastle West on Saturday. Despite inclement weather causing some members’ unavoidable absence, the meeting proceeded with enthusiasm. Mr M. O’Mahony from Devon Road presided, and attendees included representatives from various areas, expressing their commitment to the agricultural cause. The first item on the agenda was the election of officers for the upcoming year, and the existing President, Vice President, and Hon. Secretary, Messrs. M. O’Mahony, J. R. Walsh, and T. J. O’Connor, were warmly re-elected by unanimous vote.

During the meeting, pressing issues concerning the promotion of Irish produce in international markets, the future training of apprentices in creameries, and proposed amendments to the Department’s scheme for 1905 were discussed. The members expressed regret at the Department of Agriculture’s response to their representations, urging for stronger connections between the Irish and English markets for agricultural produce. They emphasized their determination to produce top-quality products and hoped to save their important industry from potential decline.

Additionally, the attendees addressed the issue of creamery manager positions and proposed measures to check fierce competition for these roles. They recommended the Department to admit only students with certification from creamery managers and members of the ECALA to the six-month course in creamery management at Glasnevin.

The meeting saw active engagement and passionate protest against the Department’s accounting practices for creameries, demanding the inclusion of available data from joint stock dairies. The branch aimed to protect and strengthen their agricultural industry and ensure a prosperous future for all involved.

Kerry News – Wednesday 29 March 1905