In an effort to alleviate the burdens faced by the hardworking labourers of Herbertstown, Hospital, and Knocklong, the Irish Land and Labour Association convened a crucial meeting on Sunday, November 19th, at the Hospital location. The purpose of this gathering was to address the Kilmallock District Council and implore them to take action in reducing the rents for labourers’ cottages during the upcoming winter months. The assembly was presided over by Mr Michl Conway, a prominent member of the Central Council, and saw Mr Michael Hayes of Hospital appointed as the meeting’s secretary.
Chairman Michael Conway emphasized the urgent need for unity among those in attendance, underlining that a collective front was essential for the success of their mission to secure reduced rents for the winter season. He stressed that the time had come for their demand to be granted, citing historical examples such as the notorious famine year of 1847, during which the working class did not falter. Yet, as they gathered, signs of desperation and starvation were already becoming visible on the horizon. The expectations pinned on the direct labour scheme, meant to provide employment and alleviate their struggles, had fallen far short of their hopes due to poor administration. As it stood, the scheme appeared to favor officials, foremen, and contractors over the workers it was intended to support.
To further address their concerns, a special meeting of the County Organising Committees was announced for December 2nd. At this gathering, the pressing question of rent reductions would be debated, and it was made clear that every labourer should actively participate. Chairman Conway expressed his pleasure at the presence of Mr James Dwyer, the former chairman of East Limerick, who shared their sympathies and convictions. He proposed the creation of a dedicated committee, composed of representatives from all branches within the union. This committee would reconvene in a week’s time to respectfully present the objectives of the gathering before the Kilmallock Council. It was believed that if the Council fulfilled its duty by granting the reasonable demand for reduced rents, the organized efforts of the Labour Association could sway the Local Government Board to endorse the proposal.
Furthermore, Chairman Conway suggested the appointment of a delegate to attend the forthcoming National Convention in Dublin. Here, the collective voice of the nation would resound, and a resolution would be proposed that urged all councils across Ireland to treat their tenants with the same fairness they themselves expected from their landlords. This proposal was met with enthusiastic cheers from the attendees, emphasizing the urgency and importance of their cause.
Mr James Dwyer, an advocate for the workers’ plight, articulated his strong support for the reasonable demand put forth by the Kilmallock union. He saw no reason why the cottagers within the Kilmallock Union should not receive a fair amount for the upkeep of their homes, particularly in exchange for services like painting and home-washing. He contrasted this with the current scenario, where contractors often reaped substantial profits while delivering unsatisfactory results. Dwyer’s endorsement of the district committee’s formation reinforced the sentiment that a united effort was pivotal in achieving their goals.
Mr Guerin of Elton also addressed the assembly, adding his voice to the collective determination. The attendees were unanimous in their agreement to assemble once more at the Hospital venue one week later, marking the initial step in a series of strategic moves to secure fair treatment for the labourers.
As the meeting concluded, a heartfelt vote of thanks was extended to Chairman Michl Conway and Secretary Michael Hayes for their dedication in orchestrating the assembly. Their leadership and the spirit of unity fostered during the meeting were the driving forces behind the workers’ determination to secure equitable housing conditions for their fellow labourers.
In a time where economic hardship and social inequalities persist, the Herbertstown, Hospital, and Knocklong branches of the Irish Land and Labour Association stand united, rallying for a just and humane approach to housing for the working class. As they continue to advocate for rent reductions and dignified living conditions, their actions serve as a reminder that collective efforts can spark positive change and ensure that the welfare of the labourers remains at the forefront of society’s concerns.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 28 November 1905
