In a resounding display of unity and fervour, the Irish Party gathered in Limerick to address a massive assembly of enthusiastic supporters. The event, held at a prominent venue, saw prominent figures delivering impassioned speeches, celebrating the Party’s achievements, and reinforcing the importance of solidarity among the Irish people.

Alderman Joyce, MP.., Extols Party’s Achievements

Alderman Joyce, MP.., a prominent figure within the Irish Party, commenced the series of speeches by acknowledging the steadfast commitment of Mr Redmond and Mr Dillon to the rich traditions of the Irish race. Declaring the Irish Party as the stalwart executor of the nation’s will, he asserted that the four and a half million funds earmarked for labourers’ cottages had been effectively utilized. With confidence, he pledged that the Party, under Mr Dillon’s leadership, would endeavour to secure another four and a half million for the same noble purpose. Joyce, a town tenant himself, underscored the Party’s dedication to addressing the concerns of both farmers and labourers, signalling a balanced approach to national issues.

Rev. Father Hanley, P.P., Acknowledges Liberation from Landlord Oppression

Following Alderman Joyce, the Rev. Father Hanley, P.P., Cahir, highlighted the transformative role of the Irish Party in liberating the people from the shackles of landlords, bailiffs, and process-servers. Father Hanley spoke of the Party as a powerful instrument that had delivered tangible benefits to those who had supported it financially. He urged the audience to recognize the importance of the current critical juncture and advocated for solid unity behind the Irish Party, emphasizing the imminent need for Ireland to assert itself on the global stage.

J. J. O’Shee, MP.., Notes a Shift in Support

The gathering also witnessed J. J. O’Shee, MP.., addressing the crowd with observations on the shifting political landscape. O’Shee remarked on the return of many who had previously strayed from the Party, noting a significant change in sentiment within Limerick County and Cork County over the past few months. He highlighted a recantation from members of the Land and Labour Association, indicating a broader trend of realignment with the majority of Nationalists in the region.

Mrs. Cullinan, MP.., Warns Against Factionism

Mrs. John Cullinan, MP.., stressed the importance of avoiding factionism and cautioned against allowing any individual to usher landlords into the movement through the back door. She congratulated the people of Limerick for their overwhelming participation in the rally and extended praise to the supportive priests, including Father Power, who stood by the Party on the platform.

Dillon Expresses Gratitude and Pride in Achievements

In a concluding address, Mr Dillon expressed his gratitude to the attendees, lauding the meeting as one of the finest he had ever addressed in Ireland. He emphasized his pride in the Irish Party’s accomplishments, particularly in the construction of cottages for the working class. Dillon thanked Father Power for assembling the gathering and presiding over it, noting that such support serves as a source of encouragement and strength for the Irish Party.

The rally concluded with an enthusiastic vote of thanks to Father Power, and as the crowd dispersed, the sentiments of unity and pride lingered in the crisp Limerick air. The Irish Party, fortified by the support of the people, stood poised to face the challenges that lay ahead, confident in their ability to navigate the intricate political landscape for the betterment of Ireland.

Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 04 June 1910