A formal eviction process took place near Abbeyfeale as part of routine proceedings. The eviction was overseen by Mr Lucas, the Sub-Sheriff of Limerick, accompanied by Mr Hall, a representative of agents Hussey and Townsend, along with a bailiff and a small police contingent.

The location of the evictions was Meenkilly, situated approximately four miles from Abbeyfeale. The tenants affected were those who collectively held 945 acres of land under a joint lease dating back to 1838, with a lease term spanning 909 years. The total rent for this land amounted to £92, resulting in an average rent of 1s 11d per acre.

One of the lessees, Thomas O’Connell, had been unaccounted for over the past few years. The lack of payment of his portion (£29) served as the immediate catalyst for the eviction proceedings. In the presence of Reverend Father Casey, who represented the Abbeyfeale community, the evictions unfolded in a seemingly ceremonial manner.

The primary objective of these evictions was to fulfill the requirements of the writs, which were expected to facilitate a potential sale. Each of the tenants was reinstated after the process, and those who were under the “widdie interest,” a specific form of lease arrangement, had recently taken steps to become direct tenants. Consequently, it was determined that formal repossession was not necessary for them.

The event highlighted the formal and legal aspects of the eviction process, reflecting the complexities of land tenure and leasing agreements in the region. With community representatives present, the evictions took place in an orderly manner, underlining the role of proper legal procedures in addressing matters related to land ownership and use.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 09 January 1906