Monaleen, Limerick – In a spirited gathering at Monaleen on Sunday, Alderman Michael Joyce, the Nationalist candidate for Parliamentary honours in the city, received resounding support from a large and enthusiastic crowd. The event, attended by a cross-section of the community, featured compelling speeches from key figures such as Alderman Joyce, Mr M. Conway, and U. L. Organizer, with Alderman McNiece also addressing the audience.
The meeting, marked by camaraderie and fervour, showcased the local backing for Alderman Joyce’s candidacy. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as speakers extolled the virtues of the Nationalist cause and urged attendees to rally behind Joyce in the upcoming election.
The crowd, a mix of Nationalists from Monaleen and neighbouring parishes, demonstrated a strong presence. Notable individuals, including Messrs. S. Latham, P. Hassett, J. McCormack, M. Fitzpatrick, P. Collins, and W. Murphy, among others, were in attendance. The support extended beyond mere presence, with attendees actively engaging in the proceedings.
Mr B. Latham proposed Michael Fitzpatrick as the meeting’s presiding officer, a suggestion seconded by Mr J. McCormack. Fitzpatrick, assuming the role, elucidated the meeting’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of every eligible voter casting their ballot in favour of the Irish Party candidate.
Alderman Joyce, greeted with an enthusiastic welcome, addressed the gathering. He dispelled any notion of being a stranger to the district, citing previous engagements in the area. His focus was on the broader context of serving the country’s interests rather than personal gain. He referenced the past General Election, emphasizing the false grounds taken by a few, asserting the need to align with the Irish Party, which he claimed worked for Ireland’s benefit.
Joyce urged caution against aligning with the House of Lords, asserting that such a move would be detrimental to Ireland’s interests. He emphasized the historical alignment of the Irish Party with the people against oppressive forces. Joyce envisioned the abolition of the House of Lords’ veto in the near future, leading to a legislative assembly in Ireland. He posed a crucial question to the audience, asking them to consider if he had been a faithful representative over the past years.
The Nationalist candidate emphasized his commitment to his promises, highlighting that no one could accuse him of reneging on his commitments or acting against the constituents’ wishes. He called for unity, urging attendees to set aside personal animosities for the greater good. Joyce asserted that, especially in the current critical juncture, it was essential to stand against those working against John Redmond, who he commended for his service to Ireland.
The audience responded with prolonged cheers, indicating a collective endorsement of Joyce’s message. He concluded by urging the people of Limerick to register their decision on the forthcoming Wednesday, sending a clear message to those opposing John Redmond’s efforts.
Following Alderman Joyce, Mr Michael Conway took the stage to express his solidarity with the Nationalist cause. He emphasized the importance of staying true to the principles of Home Rule, irrespective of opposition or factionalism. Conway’s message resonated with the crowd, eliciting enthusiastic cheers.
Alderman McNiece, in a passionate speech, threw his weight behind “honest Michael Joyce,” portraying him as the ideal representative for the constituency. He dismissed the opposition with humour, referring to it as “smoke and powder of Lice’s big gun—Paddy Bourke,” prompting laughter from the audience. McNiece proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman, which was seconded and unanimously passed.
The meeting in Monaleen underscored the robust local support for Alderman Michael Joyce’s Parliamentary candidacy, portraying a community united in its commitment to the Nationalist cause and Home Rule principles. The upcoming election is poised to witness a decisive expression of Limerick’s collective will.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 06 December 1910
