A public meeting convened by the High-Sheriff, Jr. T. S. Lawler, in Limerick saw fervent protests against proposed restrictions on various industries in Ireland. The meeting, attended by concerned citizens, passed a resolution highlighting the potential dire consequences of the proposed measures, particularly on Irish brewing, distilling, barley-growing, and related trades.
The resolution, tabled by High-Sheriff Lawler, emphasized the severe economic repercussions that the restrictions could inflict on these vital industries. It warned that such measures could lead to “irretrievable disaster” for these sectors, with far-reaching implications for the economic stability of the country. The resolution underscored the urgent need for an equitable compensation scheme to mitigate the adverse effects of the proposed restrictions.
Central to the concerns raised at the meeting was the anticipated mass unemployment that would result from the imposition of these measures. Speakers expressed apprehension that individuals accustomed to specific trades would struggle to find alternative employment if their livelihoods were abruptly disrupted. The prospect of widespread unemployment was viewed as a significant threat to societal stability, with attendees highlighting the potential for a surge in enlistments in the armed forces as a last resort for those left jobless.
A particular point of contention was the issue of conscription. High-Sheriff Lawler vehemently opposed any form of conscription for Ireland, asserting that the government should refrain from interfering with Irish industries and instead focus on supporting them. The sentiment resonated among attendees, who called upon elected representatives to vehemently resist any proposals for conscription in Ireland.
The meeting also heard from representatives of the vintners in the Bantus district, who voiced their concerns over the detrimental impact of the proposed restrictions on licensed traders. They argued that Irish traders should be exempted from these measures, citing fundamental differences between their businesses and those of their British counterparts.
Echoing these sentiments, the local Urban Council passed a similar resolution, urging the government to reconsider its proposals and exempt Irish industries from the looming restrictions. Meanwhile, reports emerged that the Irish Licensed Vintners’ Association was mobilizing across the country to organize opposition to the proposed measures.
Amidst the growing discontent, reports surfaced of imminent job losses in the malt manufacturing sector. Employees of Nenagh malt houses reportedly received notices of dismissal, while operations at “The Maltings” in Ballinacurra were slated for discontinuation, putting 36 workers out of employment.
As tensions mount and concerns over the future of Irish industries deepen, stakeholders await further developments in this ongoing saga, hoping for a resolution that safeguards the livelihoods of workers and preserves the economic vitality of the nation.
Irish Independent – Saturday 03 March 1917
