During a speech in Dromin, the Most Rev. Dr ODwyer, Bishop of Limerick, addressed criticism from outsiders, particularly English tourists, newspaper writers, and authors who write about Ireland without truly understanding its culture and history. Emphasizing their Catholic identity, the Bishop expressed that they would not entertain such uninformed criticism.

Dr ODwyer shared a humorous anecdote about Connemara jarvies (cart drivers) who knew how to cater to the preferences and prejudices of English trippers. One particular tourist was journeying through Connemara when they stumbled upon the ruins of a farmer’s house, remnants of a ruthless eviction. Curious, the tourist asked the driver what led to the desolation.

With a twinkle in his eye, the jarvey playfully responded, “Building chapels, your honour!” The tourist was intrigued, and the driver continued with a tale of a once-great family living in the area. According to the driver’s account, this family, belonging to one of the largest clans in the region, enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle. He vividly described how six sons of the family would ride out on horseback for the hunt on St. Stephen’s morning, and their home was considered one of the grandest in the vicinity. Lavish dinners were a daily affair, and the owner would enjoy no drinks before dinner but indulged in sixteen tumblers of punch after the meal, much to the amusement of the audience.

However, everything changed when a parish priest arrived and built a chapel nearby. According to the driver’s yarn, this seemingly innocent chapel construction led to the family’s downfall. The humorous tale left the English tourist amazed and pondering the supposed impact of the clergy on the Irish people.

Upon returning to England, the tourist shared the story with their circle of friends, drawing humorous conclusions about the clergy’s influence. The Bishop wryly mentioned how the English visitor attributed the downfall of the family to the building of the chapel, and even credited the English Government, landlords, and the Protestant religion for “saving” the Irish people. The audience heartily laughed at the imaginative interpretation.

Overall, the Bishop’s speech showcased his pride in Irish Catholicism and playfully highlighted the sometimes amusing misunderstandings that can arise between cultures.

Free Press (Wexford) – Saturday 16 September 1905