Addressing a gathering in Kilteely, County Limerick, Mr John Redmond spoke about the complex and sensitive political landscape in Ireland. He stressed the importance of exercising patience and caution in navigating the current situation. Mr Redmond expressed his concern over the actions of Mr William O’Brien, who he believed was attempting to undermine the influence of the Irish party and create a false impression of disunity among Irish Nationalists. He asserted that, given the overwhelming majority of the Government and the House of Commons in favor of Ireland, it would be unwise to reject the time needed for the Government to formulate plans for the governance of Ireland.

Mr Redmond highlighted some of the Irish people’s disappointments regarding unfulfilled promises. He noted that despite the King’s Speech pledging administration of Irish affairs in line with Irish ideas, certain promises had not been honoured. In particular, he mentioned the retention of Sir Horace Plunkett, the treatment of evicted tenants, and the matter of University education. He criticized the Land Act Sub-Commissioners appointed by the previous Tory Government, accusing them of bias and unionist affiliations. While some of these commissioners were expected to step down, Mr Redmond accused Mr Bryce of reappointing them, hindering the restoration of evicted tenants.

Mr Redmond emphasized the need for accountability in government actions. He highlighted a funding disparity between Irish Catholic Colleges and the Presbyterian Queen’s College Belfast, where the latter received additional funding despite pledges to the contrary. He cautioned that if the government continued to delay action on important matters, the Irish people’s resentment would become palpable.

He urged unity and discipline within the Irish party and the loyalty of the Irish people as essential elements for Ireland to benefit from the current friendly government majority. He warned against undermining the efforts of the Irish party, emphasizing that such actions would hinder the resolution of significant issues affecting the Irish people.

Mr Redmond’s speech echoed the sentiment that while the Irish people were willing to give the government a fair chance, the promises made must be upheld both in spirit and in practice. He conveyed a message of vigilance, unity, and accountability as essential components for achieving the desired outcomes for Ireland and its people.

Edinburgh Evening News – Monday 23 April 1906