A significant inquiry was held in the offices of the Limerick County Council on Monday, presided over by Mr Charles H. O’Conor, Local Government Board Inspector. The purpose of the inquiry was to discuss the application by the County Council for a Provisional Order that would allow them to assume control and management of the Munster Fairs.

Representatives from both parties attended the inquiry. Representing the County Council were Mr Robert Coll, V.C. (Chairman), Mr John Ryan, V.C., and Mr William Leahy, solicitor. The Munster Fair Commissioners were represented by Mr J.B. Barrington, Mr Courtney Croker, Mr John Coeneille, Mr E.L. Hunt (secretary), and Mr I. Blickall (solicitor).

The Inspector clarified that the purpose of the inquiry was to facilitate the Local Government Board in issuing a Provisional Order, transferring the duties and responsibilities of the Munster Fair Commissioners to the County Council. Both the Commissioners and the County Council were in agreement that the duties should be transferred, thus treating the application as a joint effort from both parties.

Mr William Leahy, solicitor for the County Council, expressed his commitment to providing all necessary assistance to facilitate the smooth transfer of the fairs.

During the inquiry, Mr Hunt submitted a financial statement for the year ending May 22, 1905, which showed a debit balance of £203 6s 6d. The accounts for 1904 indicated a debit balance of £1,581 10s 11d. These balances were explained by the interest on loans becoming due on January 1st, while the receipts were still outstanding.

Additionally, a map was presented, illustrating that the property owned by the Munster Fair Commissioners covered an extensive acreage of over 33 acres.

The inquiry represents a significant step in the process of transferring the Munster Fairs to the control and management of the County Council, marking a new chapter in the organization and administration of these important events in Munster.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 23 May 1905