In a recent monthly meeting of the Limerick Rural District Council, chaired by Mr Patrick J. Fitzgerald, several key issues came to the forefront, including the critical question of a reliable water supply for the town and the potential amalgamation of various divisions within the rural district.

Among those present at the meeting were Mr Patrick O’Shaughnessy, Thomas Ruddle, Patrick J. McCoy, James Madigan, and Michael M. Fitzgerald, as well as Mr Frank C. Hartigan, the Engineer to the Council, and Mr Maurice J. O’Shaughnessy, the Clerk.

Water Supply Woes

The pressing issue of the town’s water supply took center stage. Mr Hartigan, the Engineer, addressed the council’s concerns by explaining that he wouldn’t be able to conduct a thorough examination of potential water sources until September. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment to ensure a reliable supply. According to Hartigan, the town’s residents currently relied on surface wells, one of which was dry, and the other provided water of questionable quality.

Mr O’Shaughnessy expressed his belief that immediate action was necessary, pointing out that there was more water available than in previous times. He suggested that examining potential sources was crucial. However, Hartigan countered, highlighting the challenges of differentiating between good and poor water sources during a rainy period.

Hartigan drew from his experiences in Shroolawn, where water supply issues arose due to interference from local residents, to stress the importance of addressing the town’s water problems. He urged the Council to prioritize securing a reliable water supply.

Mr Ruddle echoed Hartigan’s concerns and pointed out that the Council had the support of their engineer and medical officer in this matter. The Engineer reaffirmed that the medical officer’s opinion was pivotal and couldn’t be bypassed.

Amalgamation Considerations

Chairman Patrick J. Fitzgerald also brought up the idea of amalgamating several divisions within the rural district. He argued that this could lead to significant cost savings, citing data from the Listowel Union where the average poor rate was lower compared to other areas. By merging with Newcastle, substantial annual savings could be achieved.

Mr McCoy, however, expressed reservations about this proposal, as he believed that retaining the District Council would be more advantageous for labourers and residents, providing them with easy access to address their concerns and cottage maintenance.

Mr O’Shaughnessy supported the idea of amalgamation, emphasizing the convenience it would offer to the district’s residents. He acknowledged the importance of the Council’s presence but felt that the potential savings outweighed the drawbacks.

Resolution and Consultation

After discussion, it was decided to request the Local Government Board to present the amalgamation resolution to the Poor Law Commission for consideration. The figures illustrating potential savings were to be included as an addendum to the resolution.

Health Concerns and Sanitary Measures

The meeting also addressed health and sanitary matters. Dr McDonnell reported that the unsanitary conditions of John Hogan’s premises were responsible for contaminating the water supply to the Glin District School. He recommended that the nuisance be resolved within twenty-four hours to prevent further contamination and potential fines.

Dr McDonnell further reported an outbreak of enteric fever among three girls in the District School. He attributed this outbreak to the filthy condition of Hogan’s premises and urged for thorough cleansing to avoid dire consequences. It was decided that the sub-sanitary officer should conduct frequent inspections of Hogan’s property to prevent further issues.

In addition, Dr McDonnell’s bill for notifying infectious diseases was approved for payment, as was Mr P. Dore’s bill for his services as a sub-sanitary officer.

Dispute Over Substitution

A dispute arose over Mr Michael Dore’s appointment as a substitute for his father as a repairer of cottages. Questions were raised about whether Mr Dore was living with his father during this period. The Clerk noted that he had received no official notice of this appointment and suggested that a notice of motion was necessary for such payments.

Mr Hartigan expressed dissatisfaction with Mr Aberne as a cottage repairer, asserting that Mr Michael Dore had provided excellent service and should continue. The matter was unresolved at the meeting.

A Claim for Compensation

Mr Patrick Ryan appeared before the Council, seeking £5 in compensation. He alleged that his bed had been taken from him for disinfection when his son was removed to Listowel hospital under suspicion of typhoid fever. Ryan asserted that his son did not have typhoid fever and questioned why the bed had not been returned as promised. The members sympathized with Ryan’s situation but pointed out that his claim should be addressed to the Listowel Board.

Action on Medical Recommendations

Dr McDonnell’s correspondence was also discussed, wherein he recommended the removal of Pat Ryan’s son to the hospital and the disinfection of Pat Ryan’s residence. The Council resolved to ask the Master of the Listowel Union why Pat Ryan’s bedding had not been returned as promised.

In conclusion, the Limerick Rural District Council grappled with pressing issues ranging from securing a reliable water supply to potential amalgamation, health concerns, and sanitary measures. These matters underscored the Council’s commitment to addressing the needs and well-being of the district’s residents while ensuring responsible management of resources.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 17 July 1906