In a notable development, the Limerick Harbour Commissioners have resolved a legal matter by agreeing to pay the sum of £260, a resolution endorsed by Mr Justice Johnson of the King’s Bench on the Admiralty side.

During proceedings held on Saturday, the plaintiff, Frank Rowland Lees, represented by Mr Boyd, acting on instructions from Messrs D and T Fitzgerald, solicitors, sought an order before Mr Justice Johnson. The order aimed to facilitate the payment of £250, which had been lodged by the defendants, the Limerick Harbour Commissioners, within the court’s jurisdiction. This payment was made in conjunction with the defendants’ defence in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit, initiated by Frank Rowland Lees, the owner of the vessel “Progress” hailing from Chichester, Sussex, England, sought £500 in damages. Allegations of negligence were leveled against the defendants, or their servants, pertaining to events occurring in October of the previous year. The alleged negligence related to the management and operation of the port and harbour of Limerick, specifically in connection with the berthing of the plaintiff’s steamship. Furthermore, the lawsuit encompassed claims of breach of contract and duty associated with the aforementioned berthing. The suit contended that the plaintiff’s vessel suffered harm while within the port’s confines.

The sum of £250 was reportedly agreed upon as a settlement in relation to the lawsuit’s claims. This resolution was presented to Mr Justice Johnson for approval. Ultimately, His Lordship granted the sought-after order, formalizing the agreement and allowing for the payment of the negotiated sum to the plaintiff. This development effectively concludes the legal action, bringing the matter to a close and providing a settlement to the satisfaction of both parties involved.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 31 October 1905