In a routine evening session, the Limerick Harbour Board convened under the chairmanship of Mayor Alderman Joyce, with several esteemed members present, including Sir Thomas Cleeve, Alderman S. O’Mara, Alderman J. Brien, and various others. The session commenced with the reading and confirmation of minutes from the previous meeting.
Before addressing the board’s agenda, Mayor Alderman Joyce extended a warm welcome to Mr Wm McDonaell, President of the Chamber of Commerce, who had returned to the board after a break in family connections. McDonaell expressed gratitude for the kind remarks, reaffirming his attachment to the Harbour Board’s meetings and his intention to maintain an active presence as President of the Chamber of Commerce.
Among the topics discussed, a report by Mr Moroney was presented concerning lavatory accommodations at the docks in relation to the labourers’ shelter. The engineer estimated that partitioning and equipping a space with cold water basins would cost approximately £30. The board approved Moroney’s report, marking a step towards improved facilities.
Another significant topic was the proposal to raise the western dock wall. Mr Moroney presented plans and a report regarding this matter, leading to the formation of a committee to examine it further.
Addressing the request of the Clyde Shipping Company, the board decided to examine a candidate submitted by them for a pilot’s certificate.
Regarding the application for wages from ferry operators Richard Wallace and Thomas Farrell, the Harbour Master’s report indicated that they were aware no salary was provided for these roles. The board ratified the report.
Electric lighting was discussed with respect to its implementation at the docks. Mr Holliday proposed that electric lights be installed in sheds at the board’s expense, with tenants covering the cost of current and maintenance. The proposal was endorsed.
International relations were addressed when Mr A. M. de Prins, the French Consular Agent, requested information about the Harbour’s expenditure. The board resolved to provide this information as a gesture of the cordial relationship between the nations.
Discussion ensued about the increase of salaries, beginning with a request from the board’s secretary. He applied for an increment in recognition of his 11 years of service. The board agreed to raise his salary to £400.
Subsequently, dredger men requested a raise in wages. Following an agreement to increase their salaries by £2.5, the board stipulated that no further applications for salary increases from the dredger men would be considered.
The meeting also saw an increase in the salary of the ball porter, James Meaney, by £2 per week, a resolution that was unanimously supported.
Applications from the Harbour Engineer and the quay policeman were adjourned for further review.
Amidst these discussions and decisions, the board maintained an atmosphere of cooperation and understanding, fostering good relations both within its members and internationally. The session concluded with a commitment to address matters of importance while ensuring the financial stability of the Harbour and the well-being of its workers.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 07 November 1905
