Limerick – A gathering was held in the Town Hall this afternoon, organized by the Munster-Connaught Exhibition, with the aim of establishing an association for the promotion of temperance through the use of tea, coffee, and other non-alcoholic beverages in local fairs and markets. The Most Reverend Dr O’Dwyer presided over the meeting, which saw the presence of various dignitaries and individuals committed to the cause.

Among those in attendance were the Reverend J.W. Ocean, the Administrator; Reverend J. Murphy, C.C. of Broadford; Reverend J. Murphy, C.C. of Rathkeale; Reverend Father Kennedy, P.P.; the Mayor of Limerick; Mr Joyce, MP..; the Dean of Limerick; Mr A.W. Shaw, J.P.; Governor Hackett, Thomond Prison; Mr James Doyle, solicitor; Lady Monteagle; Mr Lyons; Hon. Miss Rice; Mrs. De Vere Harrr; J. Doyle; Mr C.B. O’Connor; Mr Bruce, P.L.G.; and Mrs. Hamerton, among others.

The Most Reverend Dr O’Dwyer commenced by acknowledging the appropriateness of the occasion and the venue. He emphasized the significance of this exhibition, which showcased Irish industries and craftsmanship, offering a unique opportunity to display the skills and ingenuity of the Irish people. He praised the exhibition for highlighting the excellence of Irish workmanship and the determination of the Irish people to excel.

Dr O’Dwyer spoke at length about the importance of temperance, which he believed was intimately connected with the agricultural interests of the country. He noted the significant number of visitors attending the exhibition from different regions, keen to witness Irish industry in action. Dr O’Dwyer explained that the industrial movement was crucial in creating prosperity in Ireland. However, he pointed out that no industrial progress could compensate for the wealth wasted on alcoholic drinks.

He stressed that Ireland was at a turning point in its history, with a significant shift in land ownership occurring. The transfer of land ownership from a few to the people would bring about substantial changes in Irish society. Dr O’Dwyer highlighted that this transformation would release new forces and fundamentally change the social conditions of the Irish people. He acknowledged that this change would take time but would have far-reaching effects.

Dr O’Dwyer emphasized the vital role that temperance played in Ireland’s future. He stated that no change in land tenure or laws could regenerate the country without a corresponding change in drinking habits. He cited statistics, revealing that the Irish people spent vast sums on alcohol, far surpassing what would be required to make them owners of all the land in Ireland. He noted that a significant portion of this wealth was wasted, rather than invested in improving living conditions for the people.

The Bishop stressed the importance of decent dwellings for all classes in Limerick and beyond. He cited the lack of suitable housing and encouraged measures to make homes happy and habitable. Dr O’Dwyer argued that intemperance often led to poor living conditions, as people spent money on drink rather than on their homes and families.

The Bishop also addressed the issue of emigration, acknowledging that many were leaving Ireland in search of better opportunities abroad. He believed that until Ireland could provide its people with a means of livelihood at home, emigration would continue. He suggested that the prosperity brought about by the industrial movement could help reverse this trend.

In conclusion, Dr O’Dwyer expressed hope that the association for promoting temperance would succeed in its mission. He applauded the exhibition for showcasing Irish industries and called upon the public to support the cause of temperance by subscribing to the building fund and donating essential items for divine worship.

The meeting ended with the election of officers and the adoption of rules for the association. Notable figures, including Lady Monteagle and Mr A.W. Shaw, were appointed as patrons and vice-presidents. Honorary secretaries and treasurers were also named. The Mayor, who had presided over part of the meeting, praised the progress of temperance in Limerick and highlighted its positive impact on the community.

The establishment of this association represented a concerted effort to promote temperance and healthier habits among the Irish people, aligning with the broader industrial and social changes occurring in the country. The support of key figures in Limerick and the involvement of the church underscored the importance of this endeavour in shaping Ireland’s future.

Freeman’s Journal – Thursday 09 August 1906