Thurles, Ireland – The Munster Council convened in Thurles on Sunday, with Mr Thomas F. O’Sullivan from Kerry presiding as Chairman. Several members attended, including Mr W. Cartin and Mr M. Riordan from Cork, Mr W. Naughton from Limerick, Mr C. Kearney from Clare, and Mr P. McGrath serving as Secretary from Tipperary.
Venue Controversy: Tipperary vs. Kerry Matches
A prominent topic of discussion was the venue of the upcoming Tipperary vs. Kerry hurling and football championship matches scheduled for Cork on the 24th of this month. Chairman O’Sullivan expressed his dissatisfaction with Cork County Board’s refusal to field a team in the Croke Cup competition against Tipperary. He believed that Cork had not provided the expected cooperation and support to the Council.
O’Sullivan stated that he had submitted a notice to change the venue due to these actions, but he had no intention of pressing the matter further. The Secretary, however, raised concerns about the Council being hindered by the Cork County Board and St. Finbarr’s refusal to field a team.
Mr M. O’Riordan denied these allegations, while Mr Curtin expressed support for St. Finbarr’s playing against Tipperary. Chairman O’Sullivan emphasized that there was no reason to prevent the match, especially now that Blackrock had replayed Wexford. The Secretary mentioned that St. Finbarr’s had not provided any reasons for their refusal to play, and he had received no response to his inquiries.
Chairman O’Sullivan suggested sending another letter to St. Finbarr’s to seek clarification before taking any further action. However, the matter remained unresolved at the meeting.
Grange-Mockler’s Concerns
Mr E. Quane from Tipperary expressed Grange-Mockler’s reluctance to play against Kerry in Cork, as they believed the venue was unfair. He proposed that Fermoy, which had invested significantly in enclosed grounds, should be considered as an alternative venue. Mr O’Riordan countered by pointing out that there were Gaelic grounds in Cork.
Mr Quane argued that there were Gaelic enthusiasts and financiers in Cork associated with the Cork grounds. The Secretary mentioned that Grange-Mockler had not provided a reason for their objections to playing in Cork, and they had written to seek clarification. The Chairman suggested another attempt to contact Grange-Mockler for an explanation before taking any action.
Financial Discussion: Rent for Grounds
Mr McGrath, in accordance with a prior notice, proposed a change in the rent for grounds used for matches organized by the Association. He recommended setting a fixed rent of £5 instead of the previous arrangement, which was one-third of the gate receipts, up to £30, and £10 for any gate over that amount.
This proposal was seen as necessary due to the financial situation of the Council. Chairman O’Sullivan suggested that for grounds realizing up to £50, a rent of £5 would suffice. He argued that when good gates were made, the proprietors of the grounds should also share in the financial burden by reducing the rent. The Council agreed to the new rent structure as follows: £30 gate – £5 rent; £45 gate – £7.50 rent; and a gate of £60 or more – £10 rent.
Kerry vs. Clare Football Match for Croke Cup
Discussion also revolved around the Kerry vs. Clare football match for the Croke Cup. The Chairman expressed concerns that this match might lead the Council into a financial predicament. It was ultimately decided to request the Clare County Board to withdraw from the competition.
Claims for Expenses by Cork and Limerick
The Council addressed applications made by Cork and Limerick for expenses incurred during the team selection process. These expenses arose due to the counties having to pick teams when their championships were not yet finished. The Chairman emphasized the importance of reimbursing counties for any additional expenses. The Council decided to thoroughly consider these claims once the financial state of the Council allowed.
Tullyleague Objection and Other Matters
The Tullyleague objection was further adjourned to allow for the presentation of specific minutes from the Limerick County Board. The Council also discussed various other matters before adjourning the meeting.
Kerry News – Friday 08 June 1906
