
A well-attended public meeting was held at Knockaderry with the purpose of reorganizing the local branch of the United Irish League and making it active once again. Mr E.D. Liston, Esq., took the chair, after being proposed by Mr M. O’Donnell and seconded by Mr L. Curtin.
The chairman addressed the gathering, emphasizing the need to reinvigorate the local branch of the League and stand united for the National cause. He mentioned that Mr James Lynam, the organizer, had been sent by the National Directory to rekindle their political fervor. The chairman urged the attendees not to fall into apathy and to join the fight with renewed vigor.
Mr Lynam, taking the stage, expressed his pleasure at seeing ample evidence of the true National spirit in Knockaderry. He stressed the importance of active and vigorous organization at this critical time. Referring to the Land Act, he acknowledged that while some criticized it, it could yield significant benefits if utilized effectively. He reminded everyone that the landlords, the “grabbers,” and the graziers were still present and that a strong branch of the United Irish League was necessary for protection and to counter their influence.
Mr Lynam encouraged the attendees not to falter in their support for the League. He discussed the plight of evicted tenants and agricultural labourers, emphasizing the importance of a strong national organization to press forward their claims and fight for their rights.
He praised the history of Limerickmen’s dedication to Ireland and its cause. Mr Lynam expressed confidence in the people’s support for Mr Redmond in the upcoming parliamentary session. He warned against complacency and the need to stand united against disunion and any attempts to undermine their leader.
In conclusion, Mr Lynam thanked the people of Knockaderry for their commitment to reorganizing their branch and endorsed their endorsement of the National program. He assured them that they would have a voice and a vote in the councils of the nation during future conventions. He urged them to remain vigilant against any disruptive schemes that might be propagated by the Castle or its agents.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with the attendees determined to revitalize their local branch of the United Irish League and continue their fight for Ireland’s cause.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 22 August 1905