A public gathering convened by the County City of Limerick’s women took place at the Limerick Chamber of Commerce on Saturday afternoon, aimed at establishing a Women’s Ration Guild to address concerns regarding the food supply. The meeting, presided over by the Mayor (Mr S. B. Quin, DL), saw a substantial turnout, including prominent figures such as Lady Nash, Mrs. O’Grady, Mrs. Dermody, Mrs. J. J. Stack, Lady Wade, Mrs. Murray, and others. Notable attendees also included Mr H. J. Barniville, JP, and Mr H. R. Foster, JP.

Mr J. P. Goodbody, the managing director of Messrs. Goodbody and Sons, provided insights into the current state of wheat supplies, emphasizing the critical need for stringent rationing measures due to the absolute scarcity in the food supply chain, particularly concerning bread. He stressed the urgency of economic usage of resources to mitigate shortages.

With a concerted effort to raise awareness, local committees were formed for both County and City of Limerick. These committees have been tasked with disseminating informational pamphlets sanctioned by the Food Controller and are mandated to maximize efforts towards food conservation.

The establishment of the Women’s Ration Guild underscores the collective resolve to address the pressing challenges posed by the dwindling food resources. By fostering community engagement and coordinated action, the initiative seeks to instil a culture of responsible consumption and prudent utilization of available provisions.

This grassroots movement aligns with broader national efforts to navigate through the exigencies of wartime shortages and disruptions to the food supply chain. As communities across the region come together to confront these challenges, the Women’s Ration Guild emerges as a pivotal conduit for channelling local resources and ingenuity towards ensuring sustenance for all amidst adversity.

Evening Irish Times – Monday 26 March 1917