In a thought-provoking address during the opening of a captivating industrial exhibition at Kilmallock, the Bishop of Limerick underscored the urgency of action over mere discussion in Ireland’s current state. The Bishop emphasized that tangible efforts in the form of work, rather than mere dialogue, are the need of the hour for the nation.

Speaking at the event, the Bishop commended the impressive industrial showcase as a testament to the potential of focused leadership and prudent endeavours. He expressed confidence that the exhibition would stand as a compelling testament to industry’s significance for both Kilmallock’s residents and the broader County of Limerick.

Recalling a past conversation, the Bishop shared an anecdote about driving through the countryside with a high-ranking official who hailed from a farming family. The official had noted the stark transformation in societal and industrial practices, observing that this shift might be linked to persistent poverty. The Bishop then drew parallels to his own upbringing, where nearly all garments and sustenance were produced on the family’s farm, leading to a sense of prosperity and self-sufficiency.

Contrasting that era with the present, the Bishop lamented the shift towards purchasing rather than producing, marked by the decline of on-farm activities and the prevalence of idleness. With creameries replacing home-based butter production and agricultural lands being converted to grazing areas, the Bishop bemoaned the rise of idleness among the youth, which he argued could lead to moral degradation.

The Bishop pointedly emphasized that the exhibition at Kilmallock provided a beacon of hope by showcasing viable occupations for the local populace. He stressed the potential of redirecting people’s energy and thoughts toward industrial pursuits that would not only fill their time but also bolster their financial stability and bring solace to their families.

However, the Bishop didn’t merely focus on the economic implications. He asserted that there’s a profound moral good in industry, while idleness can lead to moral decay. He drew a direct link between work and the prevention of social vices like drunkenness, suggesting that a populace engaged in productive labour is more likely to experience the blessings and dignity of work, leading to an overall moral upliftment.

In conclusion, the Bishop’s address at the Kilmallock industrial exhibition underscored the importance of embracing industriousness as a means to counteract economic decline, foster moral strength, and reinvigorate the fabric of society. His words resonated as a clarion call for action, challenging the community to reevaluate their work ethic and champion the virtues of labour and industry.

Enniscorthy Echo and South Leinster Advertiser – Friday 04 May 1906