
In a recent gathering at the Limerick Harbour Board, a controversial statement made by a visiting delegate, F. Haworth, has ignited a heated debate over the alleged state of fear among Protestants in the city. The remarks, published in a Scottish newspaper, claimed that the Protestant population in Limerick was living in constant terror, casting a shadow over the ongoing discussions on Home Rule and fueling tensions between different religious communities.
The Mayor of Limerick, Alderman O’Donovan, took a stand against these accusations during the Harbour Board meeting, demanding clarification from Unionist members. This incident has not only brought the spotlight on the contentious issue of religious relations in the region but has also prompted calls for a more assertive response from both sides of the divide.
The controversy began when F. Haworth’s remarks were reported, asserting that the Protestant community in Limerick was hesitant and even afraid to meet with others. An interview was subsequently arranged, allowing the Unionist members to voice their opinions, which were overwhelmingly against Home Rule. The Mayor of Limerick, in a move to address these allegations, raised the matter at the Harbour Board meeting, challenging Unionists to repudiate or defend the claims.
However, the response from one Unionist member, Mr J. E. Goodbody, added fuel to the fire. Rather than directly addressing the accusations, Goodbody raised a point of order, questioning the appropriateness of discussing such matters in the Harbour Board. This move has intensified the debate, with many questioning the sincerity of those who benefit from the support and goodwill of the Catholic population but fail to address concerns directly.
The Mayor’s inquiry aimed at discerning whether Unionist members were individually or collectively afraid of persecution under a Home Rule government. Expressing disappointment that none had publicly or privately repudiated the allegations, the Mayor highlighted the historical harmony between religious communities in Limerick. He argued that Protestants had received support from the Catholic majority for centuries, making the accusations of intolerance particularly unwarranted.
The exchange between the Mayor and Mr J. E. Goodbody took a confrontational turn when the former directly asked Goodbody if he was afraid of persecution under Home Rule. Goodbody’s response, objecting to being cross-examined in the Harbour Board, further intensified the atmosphere, leaving lingering questions about the sincerity and intentions of those benefiting from Catholic support.
The incident did not end with Goodbody’s departure. Another Unionist member, Mr Holiday, expressed his regret over the Mayor introducing the subject, sparking further debate on the appropriateness of discussing such sensitive matters in official settings. The Mayor countered, questioning why Holiday would express sorrow over addressing the issue rather than condemning the alleged grievances within the community.
This heated exchange highlights the broader issue of religious tensions in Limerick and raises questions about the role of local boards in addressing and mediating such disputes. The Catholic community’s perceived silence and the reluctance of Unionist members to directly refute the allegations have further fuelled speculation and debate within the city.
As the controversy continues to unfold, many are calling for a more open and honest dialogue between religious communities in Limerick. The incident has shed light on the need for a proactive approach to addressing grievances and dispelling unfounded rumours that threaten to strain the historically amicable relations between Protestants and Catholics in the region. The coming days may see further discussions on how to bridge the gap and foster understanding among the diverse religious communities that call Limerick home.
Dublin Leader – Saturday 21 March 1914