In a notable session of the Belfast Corporation, a contract dispute took centre stage, ultimately decided by the casting vote of the Earl of Shaftesbury, acting as the temporary chairman. The subject of contention was the approval of the tender put forth by the Limerick Clothing Company, Ltd., for the supply of uniform clothing to the tramway staff over a three-year period.

Councillor Longmont voiced his preference for awarding the contract to a local firm, expressing the sentiment that supporting local businesses was crucial. On the opposing side, Councillor McCaughey questioned the credibility of complaints, stating, “It’s useful to hear charges of sweating in Limerick after what they had heard about Belfast.” Sweating, a term denoting the exploitation of workers, seemed to be a concern in the deliberations.

The debate also delved into the quality of the uniforms, with concerns raised by some councillors. In response, Mr Noone, the tramway manager, reassured the council, highlighting the Limerick Clothing Company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. He mentioned that the company had offered an open option for tramway staff dissatisfied with the fit of their uniforms to seek alterations from any Belfast tailor, with the bill covered by the company.

Alderman Doran injected a touch of humour into the proceedings, suggesting that a dozen coats could be obtained for the price of one tendered. He expressed scepticism towards tailors, evoking laughter among the attendees. Alderman Tyrrell defended the decision, explaining that the committee had considered multiple tenders, and the Limerick Clothing Company emerged as the lowest bidder at £1,341. He emphasized that the committee had little choice but to award the contract to the most cost-effective option, especially given the positive track record of the Limerick firm.

The crux of the opposition seemed to be concerns about standard wages not being met, and Alderman Tyrrell emphasized that the committee had offered the contract to any interested local firms. Only three had tendered, with the lowest being significantly higher than the Limerick Clothing Company’s bid.

The decision resulted in a tied vote, with 16 councillors in favour and 16 against. The Earl of Shaftesbury, finding himself in a delicate position, as the temporary chairman, provided the deciding vote in favour of the Limerick Clothing Company. Before the discussion, representatives from the amalgamated Society of Tailors, Mossy George Darns, and James McCurtain, attended as a deputation to protest against awarding the clothing contract to a Limerick firm.

This contract dispute highlighted the delicate balance between supporting local businesses, ensuring fair wages, and making fiscally responsible decisions in municipal governance.

Irish Independent – Tuesday 04 April 1911