Limerick, Ireland – In what has been described as one of the largest nationalist demonstrations in years, a fervent crowd gathered in Limerick, drawing attendees from various provinces, including a prominent delegation from Dublin. The event featured prominent figures such as Mr John Redmond, MP.., Mr John Dillon, MP.., and Mr Joseph Devlin, MP.., addressing the enthusiastic assembly.
The demonstration began with a special train arriving from Dublin, carrying key figures of the Irish Parliamentary Party, including Mr Redmond. The crowd, a sea of waving hats and cheers, welcomed them at the railway station, where numerous addresses were presented to Mr Redmond. Following these formalities, a spirited procession made its way to the Limerick Markets, where the focal meeting took place.
Mr Redmond, amidst the cheers of the crowd, expressed his awe at the size of the gathering, noting that he hadn’t witnessed such a significant assembly since 1881. He underscored the importance of the demonstration, emphasizing the opportunity it presented to showcase unity and opposition to factionalism. Reflecting on challenges thrown at him and his colleagues in the House of Commons, he asserted that the events in Munster, including the Limerick demonstration, demonstrated overwhelming endorsement for the Irish Party’s policies and actions.
Contrary to predictions that their return to Ireland would be met with condemnation, Mr Redmond highlighted the growing strength and unity behind the Irish Party, debunking claims that they would be driven into the sea. He attributed this resurgence to the Irish people’s political acumen, acknowledging their understanding that the imminent decision on Home Rule was a historic opportunity. He urged the crowd to recognize the gravity of the moment, emphasizing that the fate of an Irish Parliament hung in the balance.
The Irish Party’s stance, endorsed by the people, focused on seizing the opportunity for Home Rule, subordinating any divisive issues that could jeopardize their united front. Mr Redmond assured the crowd that sacrificing for the cause was minimal compared to the potential benefits of Home Rule. He dismissed critics who labelled Home Rule as impractical, a potential curse under the Budget, or, more recently, a sham that would create a Parliament of puppets.
Addressing specific criticisms, Mr Redmond countered allegations from Mr Healy, accusing him of betraying the national cause. He referred to a resolution moved two years ago, which called for full legislative and executive control over purely Irish affairs. Mr Redmond defended the resolution as aligned with the historical demands for Home Rule, emphasizing that the Irish people had consistently rallied behind this cause since the days of Isaac Butt and Parnell.
Mr Redmond expressed his exasperation at attempts to redefine the nature of Home Rule, insisting that it was an insult to the intelligence of the Irish audience. He referred to a statement from 1836 by Mr Parnell, who asserted that the proposed body would be a subordinate Parliament with practical advantages over Grattan’s Parliament. Redmond emphasized that changing the demand now would betray the legacy of the movement.
In conclusion, the Limerick demonstration served as a potent symbol of the widespread support for the Irish Party’s pursuit of Home Rule. The unity displayed at the event underscored the determination of the Irish people to capitalize on the historic opportunity to establish an Irish Parliament, brushing aside criticisms and reaffirming their commitment to a cause that has echoed through generations.
Dublin Daily Express – Monday 12 September 1910
