At the meeting of the Limerick No. 2 District Council, held recently, Mr John McNersey, the Chairman, presided over the proceedings. Several members of the council were present, including Mr James O’Regan, Mr J. O’G. Delmege, Mr Peter Mulqueen, Mr B. Carroll, Mr Thomas Hartigan, Mr J. Mullins, Mr Denis F. McNamara, Mr Michael Fitzgerald, Mr John Madden, Mr James Keane, Mr P. Fitzgerald, Mr P. Naughton, Mr M. J. Hanrahan, Mr Denis Stephens, Mr J. Guoning, Mr Michael Crotty, and Mr George Herriman.

During the meeting, the tenders for various works recommended by the County Surveyor, Mr I. L. K. Dobban, were under consideration. Observing the keen interest of a large number of labourers present, Mr Mullins rose to propose that the proposal for keeping in repair 1096 perches of the road from Broadford to Killaloe, including the three roads at Bridgetown Chapel and the district boundary at Ballycarney, be handed over to the County Surveyor for execution through direct labour.

In support of his proposal, Mr Mullins emphasized the importance of encouraging labourers and promoting their interests. He highlighted the establishment of a local branch of their labour organization in the district and stressed that the Council should actively support the labour force. Encouraging them to stay and work in their own country would ultimately benefit both the labourers and the nation as a whole.

Mr James O’Regan expressed his enthusiasm for seconding the resolution. He offered two significant reasons for supporting direct labour. First, he believed that the labourers deserved the sympathy and support of all Irishmen. Secondly, he echoed Mr Mullins’ sentiment that encouraging the labourers to remain in their homeland was a crucial step in the right direction.

The motion for direct labour was met with approval and excitement from the labourers present, reflecting their appreciation for the Council’s consideration of their welfare. The decision to proceed with direct labour was seen as a victory for the labour force, as it would enable them to participate directly in maintaining and improving the roadways in their local community.

With this sanction for direct labour, the Limerick No. 2 District Council showcased their commitment to empowering and supporting the labourers and fostering a sense of unity and progress within the district. The move was met with praise from various quarters, as it aligned with the growing national sentiment of supporting and valuing the labour force across the country.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 23 May 1905