Limerick, Sunday – In a gathering that resonated with historical echoes, representatives from the entire Southern province, spanning from Waterford to Kilrush, and from Cork to Nenagh, convened in Limerick to reaffirm their steadfast support for Irish Home Rule. The assembly, a reflection of the days when such Nationalist meetings were a novelty, stood as a testament to the enduring commitment of the people to the cause of Irish national citizenship.
The occasion was marked by the recall of past enthusiastic gatherings, emphasizing the deep-rooted resilience and determination that characterize Munster’s stance on the matter. A recent article in the Unionist Die-Hards organ attempted to sow seeds of doubt by suggesting that prosperous farmers in Limerick were shifting allegiance. However, the resounding response from various representative bodies, including County Councils in Limerick, Tipperary, and Clare, as well as numerous District Councils and Poor Law Boards, contradicted such notions.
Esteemed Irish leaders, Mr Redmond and Mr Dillon, echoed the sentiments expressed in these addresses, underscoring the significance of the overwhelming support. Munster, it seems, not only stands firm in its historical position but has also grown stronger in its determination to achieve full Irish national citizenship rights, fuelled by the prosperity won through resolute efforts.
The meeting, held in the capital of the South-West, served as a powerful endorsement of Mr Redmond’s leadership. While a faint challenge against his wisdom and authority emerged from a small corner of the province, the resounding unity displayed at the event reaffirmed Munster’s allegiance to its leaders. This renewed mandate is particularly crucial as Ireland enters the critical last few months of the Home Rule battle.
The opposition’s strategy appears to be shifting from a frontal assault on Home Rule to finesse and intrigue. By creating an illusion of divided ranks and counsel, they hope to gain an advantage. Munster’s response, however, has foiled such attempts, demonstrating that Mr Redmond speaks for a united Nationalist Ireland.
Recent developments in Ulster hinted at the possibility of finding a middle ground between the “Provisional Government” and Home Rule. However, the manoeuvres, including the suggestion of excluding Ulster, were exposed as mere ploys to induce division among Home Rulers. Mr P. E. Smith’s statements in Surrey were quickly discredited, and even Mr Churchill’s words proved doubtful as the proposal expanded to encompass the entire province.
The speeches delivered in Limerick on Sunday dispelled the intrigue surrounding the exclusion of Ulster. Mr Redmond asserted that such exclusion was impracticable and unworkable, stating a fact that no amount of goodwill or desire for conciliation could alter. This assertion, now recognized even in quarters that once considered the idea seriously, clears the air of uncertainty.
Moreover, even if such exclusion were possible, it would not appease the “Provisional Government,” whose spokesmen have consistently emphasized their discontent with any compromise. The Southern Unionists, too, would find it unacceptable, as it would make Home Rule even more distasteful. The “Irish Times” and the “Times” concur that any settlement to the Home Rule question must not compromise Radical ideas about the House of Lords reform or concede to the recognition of Irish nationality.
As the Home Rule battle enters a critical phase, Limerick’s resolute unity sends a powerful message. Munster stands as a bastion of unwavering support for Irish national citizenship rights, debunking any attempts to sow division. Mr Redmond’s leadership is affirmed, and the province prepares to face the challenges that lie ahead with a united front.
Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 18 October 1913
