The pressing issue of Irish University reform is a matter that the Liberal Government needs to address promptly. Ireland requires a solid educational foundation to foster social, industrial, and intellectual growth. The absence of an effective university system may result in importing talent from abroad, hindering the country’s progress. The proliferation of B.A.’s and B.L.’s without corresponding job opportunities highlights the need for practical education that can produce competent engineers, scientists, statesmen, and other professionals vital for Ireland’s development.

A recent meeting of the Limerick County Committee of Agriculture and Technical Instruction highlighted the importance of merit-based appointments. Right Rev. Monsignor Hallinan proposed that candidates for public positions should undergo examinations to ensure their competence, with voting conducted by ballot. The current practice of favoring connections over qualifications deprives Ireland of talented individuals suited for public roles. Despite some reservations, the proposition marks a crucial step towards rectifying the issue of public appointment jobbing and promoting efficiency in various sectors of Irish society.

Dublin Leader – Saturday 06 January 1906