The recent meeting of the Central Council featured discussions on several key topics, including the appointment of Mr Redmond as a referee for a significant match. Mr Redmond’s non-membership in the Central or Leinster Council raised concerns, but the Chairman clarified that the Secretary, according to the rules, had the authority to appoint an efficient substitute referee if the designated one was unavailable.

In addition, arrangements for the Shields’ finals between Leinster and Connacht were made, with the matches scheduled for November 19th in Limerick. The referees were confirmed as Mr Quillinan for football and Mr Curtin for hurling. Furthermore, the finals of the all-Ireland Championship were definitively set for November 12th at Jones’s Road.

Limerick Harbour Board Deliberations

During the fortnightly meeting of the Limerick Harbour Board, chaired by the Mayor, several important matters were discussed.

• Workingmen’s Baths: The need for workingmen’s baths at the docks was brought up by Mr Long. While not supporting an elabourate scheme, Mr Long suggested having a room equipped with wash basins for workers. The idea was met with agreement, and considerations were given to adding a room to the labourers’ shelter.
• Harbor Master’s Residence: The availability of the old harbor master’s house was discussed, but it was deemed unsuitable due to its condition. The question arose as to whether a new house should be constructed or if the house offered as lodgings to another individual.
• Berthage and Quay Wall: The issue of berthage was addressed, with Mr Holliday suggesting that the berthage area might be widened. The possibility of building on the quay wall at the west end of the dock was discussed, but there were concerns about its structural integrity. A suggestion was made to add to the existing jetty instead.
• Electric Lighting: The Limerick Steamship Company’s request for electric lighting in their sheds was reviewed. It was proposed that the Electric Lighting Committee should handle the matter, considering the board’s involvement in guaranteeing compensation if the company were relocated.
• Ferry Remuneration: An application by ferry operators Richard Wallace and James O’Farrell for remuneration during the winter months was discussed. The men were now required to adhere to specific hours at the ferry, and the board debated whether their request should be granted.
• Block-Paving of the Dock: The Engineer reported a slow progress in the block-paving work at the dock due to delays in the supply of setts by the contractor. The board decided to communicate strongly with the supplier, Longstone Quarries Company, to ensure timely delivery of the required materials.

The meeting covered a range of important topics, from harbor infrastructure to workers’ facilities, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the Limerick Harbour Board to manage and improve port operations.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 24 October 1905