The St. Vincent de Paul District Nursing Association in Limerick convened its annual meeting at St. Munchin’s College, where the distinguished Bishop, Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, presided over the proceedings. The gathering provided a platform to reflect on the organization’s accomplishments, address ongoing challenges, and express gratitude to those contributing to the noble cause.
The annual report presented during the meeting highlighted the tireless efforts of the association in aiding the community. Over the past twelve months, the association dealt with 818 cases and made an impressive 12,678 visits. These efforts were executed with a significant outlay, emphasizing the commitment to serving the community’s health needs.
A notable aspect of the report acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Sisters of Mercy and the Little Company of Mary, who generously provided their services free of charge. The resolutions passed unanimously expressed gratitude to all who supported the association’s initiatives and urged continued support for their impactful endeavours.
Bishop Dr O’Dwyer, in his address, acknowledged the significant role played by Mayor Councillor T. Ryan in advancing the city’s health initiatives during his term. The Bishop commended Mayor Ryan for spearheading projects aligned with the association’s objectives, particularly in the construction of houses for the working class on a considerable scale.
Dr O’Dwyer’s comments extended to the transformation of St. John’s Parish, emphasizing the positive changes that had occurred. He noted that what was once an area marred by wreck, ruin, and misery had been turned into a commendable and presentable part of the city. The Bishop applauded the collabourative efforts that led to this positive transformation.
Expressing a nuanced perspective on housing initiatives, Bishop O’Dwyer touched upon the involvement of the Borough Council. While recognizing their role in the absence of alternative contributors, he asserted that the primary responsibility for providing homes for the working people should rest with the employers themselves. Drawing a parallel to his own responsibilities, he stated that when he needed accommodations for those employed by him, he did not expect external entities to construct stables for them.
Bishop O’Dwyer called on larger entities, such as the Great Southern and Western Railway Company, to leverage the opportunities provided by existing legislation, specifically the Working Dwellings Act. He argued that these entities should utilize the favourable conditions offered by the government to secure funds for building homes for their workforce. In his view, such initiatives, if embraced by employers, could rapidly alter the city’s landscape.
In conclusion, Bishop Dr O’Dwyer congratulated and expressed gratitude to Mayor Councillor T. Ryan for his dedication to the welfare of the community during his tenure. The applause that followed resonated with the acknowledgment of the positive impact made by collabourative efforts in addressing the housing and health needs of Limerick’s residents.
Freeman’s Journal – Thursday 14 November 1912
