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Limerick Bishop Sparks Controversy with Anti-British Letter | Limerick Archives

Limerick Bishop Sparks Controversy with Anti-British Letter

In a recent exchange in the House of Commons, the attitude of Dr O’Dwyer, the outspoken Bishop of Limerick, towards British rule in Ireland came under scrutiny, reigniting tensions between the Catholic clergy and the British administration. Responding to remarks by Mr Justice Shearman, Chief Secretary for Ireland, Mr Augustine Birrell, the Secretary of State for Ireland, highlighted Dr O’Dwyer’s role in fuelling disaffection among the populace, particularly within the Sinn Féin movement.

Mr Birrell’s comments referenced a letter penned by Dr O’Dwyer, denouncing the treatment of Irish emigrants in Liverpool, a predominantly Catholic city in England. The bishop’s letter condemned what he perceived as the mistreatment of Irish migrants, who were allegedly subjected to hostility by Liverpool crowds, creating a rift between the Irish community and the British authorities.

Known for his anti-British stance, Dr O’Dwyer’s letter added fuel to the fire of nationalist sentiment, particularly in Limerick and beyond. His outspokenness has long been a thorn in the side of British officials, with Mr Birrell acknowledging that the bishop had never been an ally of the Nationalist Party nor of the British administration.

In response to queries regarding Lord Midleton’s remarks in the House of Lords concerning a speech by Rev. Father Flanagan in Cork, Mr Birrell revealed that he had corresponded with Lord Midleton on the matter. However, he asserted that Lord Midleton’s warning was unrelated to the situation at hand, dismissing any implications of collusion with foreign powers, particularly Germany.

The exchange in the House of Commons shed light on the simmering tensions within Ireland in the lead-up to the outbreak of World War I. Mr Birrell conceded that Ireland had been on the verge of rebellion for months prior to August 4, 1914, with internal unrest being a factor considered by Germany in its decision to go to war. The relaxation of restrictions on arms imports the day after the declaration of war raised eyebrows, prompting questions about the British government’s handling of the situation.

As the war unfolded, Ireland found itself grappling with the repercussions of global conflict. Mr Birrell lamented that the war had disrupted plans to address revolutionary sentiments within the country, with objections to conscription particularly pronounced in rural areas where economic prosperity had shielded communities from the worst of the unrest.

The Secretary of State for Ireland also addressed concerns regarding anti-recruiting speeches and demonstrations, revealing a mixed record of convictions and acquittals. While prosecutions were pursued, Mr Birrell acknowledged the challenges of securing convictions, attributing some failures to the presence of the Attorney-General prosecuting for the Crown.

In one instance, a schoolmaster was found in possession of explosives, ostensibly to deter pests, leading to incredulity among lawmakers. The episode underscored the complexities of law enforcement in a climate of heightened tension and suspicion.

Dr O’Dwyer’s letter and Mr Birrell’s remarks serve as reminders of the deep-seated divisions within Ireland, where grievances against British rule continue to fuel nationalist sentiments. As the country navigates the tumultuous waters of war and rebellion, the role of influential figures like Dr O’Dwyer will remain a subject of scrutiny and debate.

Irish Independent – Saturday 20 May 1916

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