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Mayor Challenges Allegations in Limerick, Defends City's Harmony | Limerick Archives

Mayor Challenges Allegations in Limerick, Defends City’s Harmony

In a heated session at the Limerick Harbour Board meeting today, Mayor Alderman P. O’Flanagan addressed a matter of utmost importance, shedding light on recent allegations concerning religious tensions in the city. The Mayor responded to claims made by a deputation from Ayrshire, Scotland, who asserted that Protestants in Limerick were living in a state of fear, nearly afraid to voice their opinions under a Home Rule Government.

The controversy arose when a cutting from a Scottish newspaper, The Scotsman, was brought to the attention of the Mayor. The article, which was based on a visit to Ireland by the Ayrshire deputation, accused Limerick city of being a place where the Protestant population lived in constant terror. The Mayor, in a bid to address the issue, read aloud excerpts from the article during the meeting.

A certain J. T. Lincoln was quoted in the article, claiming, “In Limerick, the Protestant part of the population seemed to be living in a state of terror.” The Mayor expressed his concern over the slanderous nature of the statements and the potential impact on the city’s reputation.

A contentious exchange unfolded during the meeting, with the Mayor challenging Unionist members of the board regarding their stance on the allegations. Mr J. Ellis raised objections, stating that the discussion was not relevant to the board’s business, but the Mayor persisted in seeking clarification.

The Mayor posed a direct question to Unionist members, asking whether they, as individuals, were afraid of persecution under a Home Rule Government. To the Mayor’s disappointment, no public or private statements had been made by Unionist members, affirming their lack of fear of persecution.

In his impassioned address, the Mayor defended the city and its residents, highlighting the historical harmony between the Protestant and Roman Catholic communities in Limerick. He pointed out that the Protestants in Limerick had been recipients of utmost courtesy and respect from the majority for centuries. The Mayor questioned the motives behind the allegations and accused the deputation of being sent to Ireland with the intention of tarnishing the country’s reputation.

The Mayor’s statements were met with mixed reactions from the board members. Some supported his efforts to defend the city’s honour, while others expressed regret that the issue had been brought up in the board meeting.

Mr Wm. Holliday, J.P., voiced his concern over the Mayor’s decision to introduce the subject, emphasizing the need to focus on the board’s business. The Mayor, undeterred, declared his intention to address the matter further, dismissing any objections.

Despite attempts to quell the discussion, the Mayor remained steadfast in his commitment to protecting Limerick’s image and challenging what he perceived as baseless accusations. The meeting concluded with a tense atmosphere, leaving the lingering question of whether these allegations would impact the city’s standing in the long run.

As Limerick grapples with external scrutiny, the Mayor’s unwavering defence reflects the deep-seated pride and resilience within the community. Only time will tell how this controversy will shape the perception of Limerick on the national and international stage.

Dublin Daily Express – Tuesday 03 March 1914

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