A significant gathering, organized by the Croom Branch of the Land and Labour Association, recently took place in the vibrant town of Croom. The event drew substantial attendance and featured lively discussions about the rights and aspirations of the Irish labourers. The town was bedecked with colorful decorations to commemorate the occasion, and participants were treated to performances by various bands from neighboring regions.
The event, presided over by Mr John Brennan of Adare, saw a convergence of various local groups, including the Croom Demonstration Committee, Kilfinny United Irish League, Garruo derk United Irish League, and Charleville Land and Labour Association. The atmosphere was electric, and attendees were invigorated as they welcomed the keynote speaker, Mr William O’Brien, with resounding cheers.
Grateful for the warm reception, Mr O’Brien expressed his belief that a crucial milestone had been achieved in the struggle for labourer rights. The Irish Labourers Bill, he revealed, was set to become the inaugural Irish legislation in the new Parliament. He lamented, however, that due to certain hindrances, both the labourers’ and the evicted tenants’ issues had regressed over the past years.
In his address, Mr O’Brien, a prominent advocate for labourer rights, stressed the necessity of unifying all willing parties to ensure progress. He highlighted the potential of the new legislative session to enact substantial change, providing labourers a permanent foothold on the soil and ushering in an era of enterprise and improved native industries.
Acknowledging that the current government might not fully comprehend the urgency of the matter, Mr O’Brien called for collective action among Ireland’s representatives. He lamented the lack of a united effort to advance the country’s interests. He emphasized the importance of approaching issues with a policy of business-like conciliation and collabouration, rather than division.
Mr O’Brien proposed a dialogue between Nationalist leaders, including Mr Redmond and Mr Dillon, to establish a shared path forward. He even extended the invitation to figures such as Mr Davitt, Mr Healy, Mr T. P. O’Connor, and Mr Sexton, suggesting that unity could be achieved by focusing on common goals.
The speech resonated with the audience, who responded with fervent applause. Mr O’Brien went on to discuss key clauses of the Labourers Bill and urged attendees to prioritize the labourers’ cause as a rallying point for all Irishmen, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.
The event also featured addresses by prominent figures such as Mr D. D. Sheehan, Mr Eugene O’Sullivan, Mr John Osborne, Mr W. Hickey, and Mr M. Conway. Apology letters were received from Mr John Redmond and Mr James O’Grady, MP for East Leeds.
Throughout the event, several resolutions were adopted, expressing the attendees’ commitment to Irish liberty, advocating for land distribution among labourers, and calling for proper housing, representation, and the protection of tenant rights.
As the sun set on the historic town of Croom, it was clear that the spirit of unity and activism was stronger than ever, with attendees departing with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to advance the rights and well-being of Irish labourers.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 20 March 1906
