After a prolonged and challenging period of two years marked by discord, the Master builders and masons of Limerick have finally reached an agreement, bringing an end to their bitter dispute. The conflict had its origins at the commencement of the construction of the New Post Office, leading to significant ramifications for local masons who found themselves out of work due to the ongoing tensions.

The dispute encompassed multiple points of contention, with the Master builders accusing the men of adopting an ‘unreasonable attitude,’ while the latter claimed that the builders were aiming to dismantle the workingman’s trades-union alliance. Amidst this prolonged struggle, a glimmer of hope emerged when the Reverend Father Creagh, Spiritual Director of the Arch Confraternity of the Holy Family at the Redemptorist Church, stepped in as a mediator.

Father Creagh’s efforts bore fruit as he successfully facilitated a satisfactory resolution between the parties involved. His intervention is hailed as a commendable act that has spared the working classes and their families from continued hardship.

The agreement brokered through Father Creagh’s efforts carries several significant stipulations:

1. Compensation: Workers will be paid by the hour at the rate of 7d per hour during summer months and 8d per hour during the winter months. The new working week is set at 57 hours, leading to an increase in weekly wages by approximately 1s 3d, bringing the total to 33s 4d to 34s.
2. Employment Dynamics: Master builders will be permitted to bring in external masons in cases where a surge in work necessitates additional labour. This flexibility aims to maintain smoother workflow during peak periods.
3. Local Employment: As opportunities arise, the masons and other workers imported into the city during the construction of the Post Office and thereafter will be gradually replaced by local workers.
4. Binding Agreement: The agreement, now signed by both master builders and workers, is binding on each party for a period of five years, ensuring stability in labour relations.

The resolution of this dispute marks a significant milestone for Limerick’s construction sector, sparing it from further disruptions and revitalizing employment opportunities for workingmen. Work is set to resume promptly, rejuvenating the building operations that had been hindered by the prolonged conflict.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 13 March 1906