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Legal Proceedings Regarding Mayorship in Limerick | Limerick Archives

Legal Proceedings Regarding Mayorship in Limerick

In a recent legal development within the King’s Bench Division, an application was presented yesterday before the Lord Chief Justice and the Lord Chief Baron. Mr Greaves (representing Messrs. Moran and Son) appeared on behalf of Alderman Philip O’Donovan, seeking leave to file information by way of quo warranto. This legal action was directed at Mr Timothy Ryan, questioning his authority to act as both a Councillor and the Mayor of the County Borough of the City of Limerick.

The crux of the matter, as outlined in the affidavit submitted by Alderman O’Donovan, was the allegation that Mr Ryan had been carrying out duties as both a Councillor and Mayor of Limerick despite being disqualified. The disqualification was purportedly due to his involvement in a contract for the supply of goods to the Committee of the city. The affidavit further claimed that since May 1909, the business of Messrs. O’Donovan and Co., printers located at 125 George Street, Limerick, had been conducted by Mr Ryan and Mr Michael Dooley.

A specific instance cited in the affidavit was a committee meeting presided over by Mr Ryan on May 1st of the current year, during which the tender of Messrs. O’Donovan and Co. amounting to £8 19s 7d was accepted. Additionally, it was asserted that a mortgage affecting the property at 125 George Street, amounting to £952, had been granted by Messrs. Ryan and Dooley.

The legal challenge also delved into the political context, stating that Alderman O’Donovan himself had been a candidate for the office of Mayor in the recent election held in January. Despite objections raised against Mr Ryan’s candidacy, he was declared elected with 16 votes in his favour, compared to 14 for Alderman O’Donovan and 10 for another candidate, John Brown. Mr Ryan subsequently subscribed to the official declaration of office and has since been carrying out the responsibilities of the Mayor.

In response to the presented case, the Court granted a conditional order of quo warranto. This legal remedy allows for an individual to be ousted from an office if it is determined that they are ineligible or disqualified from holding that position. The conditional nature of the order implies that further legal proceedings will ensue to ascertain the validity of the allegations and Mr Ryan’s eligibility to continue serving as both a Councillor and Mayor.

The legal proceedings shed light on the complexities surrounding the dual roles of Mr Timothy Ryan in the City of Limerick and raise questions about the adherence to legal and ethical standards in the conduct of civic duties. The upcoming legal scrutiny will play a crucial role in determining the future course of leadership in the County Borough of Limerick and may have broader implications for the political landscape of the city.

Dublin Daily Express – Tuesday 06 February 1912

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