On Monday, a public meeting of the citizens was held in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, at the requisition of the Mayor. The purpose of the meeting was to present a testimonial to Rev. M. O’Riordan, D.D., C.C., of St. Michael’s Church, on the occasion of his appointment by the Pope as Rector of the Irish College in Rome.
The gathering included notable attendees such as the Mayor (Alderman Joyce, MP..), Mr James Flynn (City High Sheriff), Lord Emly, Sir Vincent Nash, and several other prominent individuals from the community.
The Mayor clarified that they initially sought advice due to certain rules set forth by the Bishops of Ireland regarding testimonials to priests. He consulted with Father Cregan and subsequently with the Bishop, who recognized the exceptional nature of the case and expressed joy over the appointment of a Limerickman to such a prestigious position. The citizens shared in this enthusiasm and expressed pride in the fact that a priest from their diocese was chosen for this significant role.
They discussed organizing a public meeting to ensure that the testimonial to Dr O’Riordan would be one that Limerick could take pride in. They received a supportive telegram from Mr N.A. Brophy, who promised to subscribe to the cause.
During the meeting, it was suggested that the testimonial should not be confined to the city alone but extended to include the county as well. This idea was warmly approved by Lord Emly, who believed that Dr O’Riordan’s appointment was not only important for the city but also for the county and the entire southern region of Ireland.
Mr Hartigan proposed that Mr Tidmarsh act as secretary, but Alderman O’Mara suggested appointing a second secretary, and he proposed Sir Vincent Nash for the role. Both gentlemen consented to their appointments.
On the motion of Mr Power, seconded by Alderman O’Mara, those present formed a committee to arrange the details of the testimonial. The citizens were eager to express their appreciation and honour Rev. M. O’Riordan for his distinguished appointment to the prestigious position in Rome.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 05 September 1905
