During a recent gathering, Mr Murphy from Belfast put forward a significant resolution aimed at promoting the establishment of an Independent Labour Party in Ireland. He emphasized that this proposal was not a criticism of the existing Irish Parliamentary Party. Instead, it was a call for a distinct political entity that could more effectively represent the interests of labour in the Irish political landscape.

Mr Hayes, representing Limerick, moved an amendment to this resolution, asserting that the current Irish Party adequately met the needs and aspirations of the labour element in Ireland. He argued that there was no need for a separate labour party.

Mr Leahy, also from Limerick, seconded the amendment and went a step further, expressing the opinion that anyone who would support the creation of such an organization, as suggested in the original resolution, should be confined to a lunatic asylum.

When a vote was taken on both the resolution and the amendment, they were ultimately defeated.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin made an appearance during the proceedings, and he was presented with an address from the Athlone Trade and Labour Society. In his response, he referred to the earlier discussion and affirmed that the Irish Party was, in essence, a Labor Party that was dedicated to working for the betterment of Ireland.

With this exchange of views and the presentation of the address, the Congress concluded its deliberations.

Irish Independent – Thursday 07 June 1906