In a remarkable display of unity and commitment to sobriety, the residents of Limerick gathered at the newly inaugurated hall of the Clare Street Workingmen’s Club on a recent Saturday night. The event, which marked the opening of the hall, was adorned with a stirring address by the Reverend Father Thomas O’Casey, who extended his congratulations to the attendees for their steadfast adherence to temperance pledges.
The backdrop of the Temperance movement in the city was revisited by Father O’Casey, who recalled the fervour of a similar gathering in London just a week prior, where a staggering four thousand individuals assembled on a Sunday night. Notably, the majority of the participants were of Irish descent, emphasizing the local resonance of the Temperance cause in the region.
Addressing the crowd, Fr. Thomas, a prominent figure in the movement, articulated the connection between the pursuit of a living wage and the integral role of temperance. He posed a pertinent question, “Why not make the hunt for a living wage as intense as the pursuit of a temperate life, ensuring that it is equally valued by those who receive it?”
The central theme echoed through the halls was the profound impact of temperance on individual lives, making the lure of alcohol consumption practically insurmountable. Thomas emphasized that authentic reformers and true advocates for the well-being of workers are those who dedicate their efforts to instilling the principles of Temperance among the working class. The applause from the audience indicated a collective acknowledgment of the significance of this approach in fostering a healthier and more prosperous community.
Regardless of the initiatives undertaken or the auspices under which they are launched, the message resonated loud and clear – the pursuit of Temperance must be undertaken in a manner that secures the approval and support of the community. This sentiment was underscored by Thomas, who asserted that the success of any endeavour depends on conducting it with a dedication that would earn the endorsement of their beloved patrons.
As the evening drew to a close, a heartfelt vote of thanks was extended to Reverend Father O’Casey for his inspirational words, bringing the gathering to a gratifying conclusion. The event in Limerick stands as a testament to the thriving Temperance movement in the city, showcasing the community’s unwavering commitment to the principles of abstinence and the pursuit of a healthier, more virtuous lifestyle.
Freeman’s Journal – Tuesday 11 November 1913
