An adjourned meeting of the Limerick Fishery Board convened last week to deliberate on the financial challenges faced by the board and the imperative need for assistance from the Department of Agriculture. The secretary informed the attendees that he had corresponded with the department, emphasising the discussions held in October with Sir Horace Plunkett. The focus was on securing an advance of funds amounting to an undisclosed sum to facilitate the recruitment of an adequate number of bailiffs. The primary objective was the effective protection of the Shannon River and its tributaries. Additionally, consideration was given to acquiring a steam launch for the board’s use.

The secretary shared a communique from the department dated November 14, acknowledging the conservators’ proposals concerning the terms attached to the department’s financial assistance. These proposals were promised careful consideration in consultation with the agricultural board. The letter further conveyed that, given the time required for a decision, the conservators might find it prudent to gather the funds mentioned in their letter independently. Moreover, they were offered £3 for every £1 subscribed, aligning with the terms stipulated in the department’s letter of January 10.

After a thorough discussion, a resolution was passed, expressing the conservators’ desire to draw attention to the distinctive nature of the Shannon fisheries. They underscored that these fisheries differed significantly from other rivers due to their substantial scale. The resolution pointed out that unless the requested sum of £100 was promptly granted by the department, the board would be unable to retain the services of the bailiffs. Such a scenario, the resolution argued, could result in irreparable harm to the Shannon fisheries, upon which numerous impoverished individuals depend for their livelihoods.

The meeting underscored that the board judiciously utilized its funds and asserted that with additional financial support, they could achieve more in terms of effective conservation. The participants stressed the urgency of the situation, highlighting that a delay in financial assistance could jeopardize the welfare of the Shannon fisheries and the livelihoods of hundreds of individuals.

In light of these concerns, the meeting adjourned for a week to await a response from the department, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences for the Shannon fisheries and the community relying on them for sustenance.

Field – Saturday 24 November 1906