In the picturesque but quiet rural districts of County Limerick, a housing conundrum is unfolding, impacting the lives of local labourers and drawing the ire of community leaders. The issue was thrust into the spotlight during the latest meeting of the Coon Council, where the chairman lamented the misuse of labourers’ cottages, a situation that not only strains local resources but also denies essential housing to those in dire need.

These cottages, originally built to provide affordable and accessible living spaces for the agricultural workers of Limerick, have instead been leased to individuals who choose to reside elsewhere. This practice has led to a peculiar scenario where homes meant to alleviate the housing shortage for the working class are left empty for extended periods, only to require significant repairs after a couple of years of neglect. The financial burden of these repairs falls unjustly on the shoulders of ratepayers, adding to the community’s frustrations.

Beyond the economic implications, the chairman underscored a more grave consequence: the injustice towards the labourers who are in desperate need of decent accommodations. It is deemed preposterous that these individuals, the backbone of the rural economy, are left to scramble for housing due to a loophole that benefits a few at the expense of many.

This issue is not unique to County Limerick. Similar grievances have been aired in other rural districts, pointing to a broader systemic problem affecting the countryside. The practice of letting out cottages to non-residents exacerbates an already tight housing market, pushing local labourers into a precarious situation where finding suitable living conditions becomes a Herculean task.

The call from the County Council’s chairman for an end to this practice resonates with a growing sentiment among the community. There is a pressing need for regulations that prioritize the housing needs of local labourers over the convenience of absentee tenants. The interests of the labourers, who contribute tirelessly to the agricultural success of the region, and the fiscal responsibilities towards the ratepayers, demand immediate action.

As this issue gains attention, it serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing rural communities in Ireland. The quest for a fair and just housing policy that serves the needs of all citizens, especially those who toil the land, is more urgent than ever. The hope is that by bringing these injustices to light, steps can be taken to rectify the situation, ensuring that the rural districts of Limerick can offer their labourers not just employment, but a place to call home.

Freeman’s Journal – Monday 02 November 1914