A recent letter from Mr T. Learnihan, Acting Collector of Customs in Limerick, has sparked controversy over the proposed relocation of waterguard officers from their current watchhouse to the old residence of the Harbour Master. The letter, addressed to the Harbour Commissioners, highlighted objections raised by the Board of Customs against the proposed move.

According to the letter, the Board of Customs expressed its firm opposition to the relocation, asserting that the new accommodation offered within the old Harbour Master’s residence was less suitable for a watchhouse than the officers’ current premises. The objection also extended to sanitary concerns related to the proposed location.

During a discussion on the matter, Mr Holliday, a representative of the board, noted that the board’s hands were tied in this situation. He emphasized the unfortunate reputation that the proposed residence had already garnered and mentioned that while it might not be the best fit for sleeping accommodations, it could still serve adequately as office space.

Mr Moroney weighed in on the matter, stating that the board should consider finding an alternative solution, as the current premises significantly constrained him in his duties. He pointed out that the Customs authorities already occupied three out of the five rooms in question.

An alternative suggestion was put forth by Mr Holliday, who proposed that the engineer could potentially move into the Harbour Master’s residence. However, Mr Moroney voiced concerns that such a move would not align with the needs of their work, as it would disconnect them from the ships, stores, and ongoing operations.

The central point of contention revolved around the reasonableness of the objections raised in Mr Learnihan’s letter. Mr Holliday noted that the objections held merit, much like the concerns expressed by the engineer. After deliberation, it was decided that the old house of the Harbour Master would be advertised for potential use as offices or a dwelling, at a yearly rent of £20, excluding rates and taxes.

Pilotage Charge Dispute Resolved

Another issue on the docket involved a dispute over pilotage charges. Mr Edmund Ludlow penned a letter declining payment of a £205 charge on behalf of the western pilot of the steamship “Kidonan,” which traveled from Kilcredane to Scattery. Mr Ludlow found it odd that the board insisted on this fee, as other steamers in similar situations were only charged the Scattery rate despite embarking from Kilcredane.

The Secretary acknowledged the accuracy of the statements in Mr Ludlow’s letter, but he explained that the board’s order still stood. Mr Holliday questioned the rationale behind such an order when it contradicted the facts. The Secretary clarified that the steamship, after reaching Scattery, had returned to Kilcredane to pick up a pilot en route.

In response to the dispute, a motion was made by Mr Stokes to remit the charge, and this proposition received unanimous support. This resolution aimed to provide compensation rather than requiring payment from the party involved.

Trade Flourishes in the Port

During the meeting, the Secretary presented the annual report and accounts for the year 19CH, outlining the state of trade within the port. A total of 140 vessels entered the port, with a combined reported tonnage of 158,037 tons. Notably, the Port’s trade remained robust compared to previous years.

Questions arose about the comparison of tonnage with the previous year, to which the Secretary responded that it remained relatively consistent. There was also discussion about dock paving, which was set to be covered in Mr Moroney’s forthcoming report.

The report shed light on various financial matters, including expenses related to opposing the Railway Amalgamation and pensions. The auditors recommended seeking a revised legal opinion on certain financial matters, a suggestion that sparked debate among the board members.

The Secretary’s report and the Engineer’s report were both approved for printing and distribution among the members before being released to the press. The meeting concluded with a sense of resolution on some issues, though the debate continued over certain financial and administrative matters affecting the port’s operations.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 13 March 1906