The ongoing dispute concerning stevedores and their role in unloading vessels has taken a new turn with the arrival of the ss “Emperor,” carrying a load of coals bound for the Limerick Gas Works. This situation has garnered attention due to the decision of the Dock Labourers’ Society to work exclusively by Direct Labour, a resolution they have been strictly adhering to.

Mr John F. Power, a contractor, had arranged with Alderman O’Brien for the discharge of the ship’s cargo, following the customary practice that has been in place for several years. However, it seems that the Dock Labourers’ Society members, in line with their commitment to Direct Labour, refused to work in any other manner. As a result, their demand was met, and they carried out the unloading.

Alderman O’Brien feels the need to clarify the situation and present the facts to the citizens. He explains that he had been consistently engaged to discharge coal cargoes from steamers destined for the gas works for many years, including this particular occasion. He had hired 45 dock labourers who were ready to work with him as stevedore, rather than under the Direct Labour system. In the days leading up to the vessel’s arrival, carmen had made commitments to work with Alderman O’Brien and transport the coals to the gas house. However, some of the carmen changed their minds after attending a meeting of the Dock Labourers’ Society on Sunday, and decided not to draw the coals.

Upon learning of this change, Alderman O’Brien consulted with the labourers who had agreed to discharge the vessel and they collectively decided not to work under any circumstances other than with him as the stevedore. Consequently, on Monday morning, he handed over the discharge of the ship to Mr Power’s clerk. Alderman O’Brien emphasizes that the labourers he engaged are always willing to work under stevedores.

Reflecting on the ongoing dispute, Alderman O’Brien highlights some noteworthy events. He recalls that in the early stages of the controversy, while discharging cement for the Messrs Spaight, no objections were raised by the dock labourers. Furthermore, he recounts his role in ensuring that gasworks’ coal supply steamers continue to be worked manually instead of utilizing steam power, as is evident from the Corporation minutes. This choice, he asserts, results in the employment of around sixty men for the unloading of each of these steamers, compared to only thirty-four needed for similar boats that rely on steam power for discharging their cargoes.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 17 October 1905