In the ongoing saga of the Irish University question, Ray Francis J. Dennan of Weybourne Cottage, Guildford, shares his thoughts on a recent invitation from the Bishop of Limerick to Irish Members of Parliament. The invitation, urging them to retire from parliamentary life, sparks a reflection on the complexities surrounding the Catholic University issue and the clash of perspectives between Nonconformists and Irish Catholics.
Dennan begins by recounting the Bishop of Limerick’s advice to Irish Members, a call for their departure from parliamentary life accompanied by colorful language about their “swelled heads.” This provocative counsel is reminiscent of a recent urging from the Archbishop of Seleucia for Irish Catholic voters in England to prioritize their theological bonds to the country they reside in over their land of birth.
The author introduces an anecdote, illustrating the enduring connection Irish Catholics maintain with their homeland, regardless of where life takes them. He suggests that the Irish Members of Parliament face a challenging existence, akin to Gilbert’s unhappy policeman, as they navigate the complexities of political life.
Dennan then delves into the heart of the matter—the Nonconformist objection to endowing a Catholic University with public funds. The Nonconformist stance argues that if Irish Catholics insist on having a University in a Catholic atmosphere, they should fund it themselves. Dennan challenges this perspective, pointing out that the Irish have long contributed substantial amounts to the national coffers, currently at a rate of £2,750,000 annually. He suggests that this financial imbalance should prompt a reevaluation of the financial relations between Ireland and England.
The author anticipates the potential Nonconformist response, proposing a readjustment of financial relations without allocating national funds to a Catholic University. Dennan expresses confidence in the astuteness of Irish Members of Parliament to demand such a readjustment and secure funding for a Catholic University. He references the support for this position from an unexpected source—Nonconformist and Liberal stalwart Mr Stead, who reportedly published a similar opinion in the “Review of Reviews” nearly a decade ago.
Dennan’s perspective on the Irish University question encapsulates the tensions between Nonconformists and Irish Catholics, offering a glimpse into the complex interplay of politics, religion, and financial considerations. As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen how these contrasting viewpoints will shape the future of education and governance in Ireland.
Catholic Times and Catholic Opinion – Friday 10 July 1908
