Vigilance Committees in Ireland, particularly outside of Dublin, have faced questions regarding their effectiveness in promoting good literature and combating objectionable materials. While some efforts have been made, such as the recent meeting of the Kilkenny Vigilance Committee, concerns persist about the sustained vitality of these groups.
The Lenten pastorals of the Bishops have consistently emphasised the importance of vigilance in safeguarding moral standards, yet there is a sense of stagnation in the progress of the good literature crusade. Despite periodic awakenings during Lent over the past three years, recent indications suggest a lack of continued momentum.
Critics lament the tendency for serious movements, such as the good literature crusade, to falter in Ireland due to a lack of sustained commitment. The need for tenacity of purpose is underscored, with observations pointing to a slow acquisition of this quality among the populace, particularly outside traditional Irish strongholds.
The influence of publications like the “Leader” , which have championed moral causes and called out wobbling Vigilance Committees, is acknowledged for its role in keeping the flame of activism alive, particularly citing its impact in Limerick.
One effective tactic employed by Vigilance Committees has been hitting offenders in the pocket, particularly through withdrawing support from establishments that persist in selling objectionable literature. However, there are instances where such efforts seem to falter, such as the case of a newspaper shop in a southern town, run by a Protestant, which continues to thrive despite repeated objections from the local Vigilance Committee.
Of particular concern is the support extended to such establishments by Catholic institutions, such as convent schools, which continue to patronise the newspaper shop despite the availability of Catholic bookshops in the same vicinity. This support, evidenced by significant yearly orders, raises questions about the efficacy of efforts to combat objectionable literature within Catholic communities.
The situation highlights broader challenges facing the promotion of good literature and moral standards in Ireland, including the need for sustained efforts, the role of influential publications, and the complexities of community support. As the debate continues, the effectiveness of Vigilance Committees and the broader crusade for good literature remains under scrutiny.
Dublin Leader – Saturday 27 March 1915
