The inaugural New Munster Fair, scheduled to take place on Thursday, experienced a dismal turnout. The fair can be considered practically non-existent, as very few horses were brought in for sale. Buyers, including prominent ones, were present but left disappointed by the lack of offerings. Farmers also expressed their displeasure at the situation. The failure of the new fair can be attributed to the glaring absence of advertising. Over the years, complaints about the lack of promotion have been repeatedly voiced, but no substantial action seems to have been taken in response.

The situation has been particularly frustrating for many fairs, as both attendance and the supply of livestock have suffered due to the absurd practice of keeping horse fairs as secretive as possible. This lack of transparency has been a longstanding issue that needs to be addressed urgently. With the Limerick County Council now overseeing the fairs, it is hoped that improvements will be made, including better advertising practices.

On a slightly brighter note, the cattle and sheep fair held on Friday fared somewhat better in terms of supply, with approximately 1,000 cattle and 500 sheep being brought in for sale. However, due to the same advertising issue, buyers were scarce, resulting in some lots being left unsold. Nonetheless, a decent amount of business was conducted, and prices remained favorable. The best beef fetched up to Hts per cwt, medium quality sold at 525 per cwt, while inferior kinds were priced at 455 per cwt.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 04 July 1905