Limerick – During a meeting of the Limerick Harbour Board, presided over by the Mayor, a letter from Mr Twyford regarding the wreck at Matthew Bridge was read. The letter stated that operations to shift the wreck had commenced and they expected it to be removed in a few days. The delay in starting the process was attributed to Mr Twyford’s absence.
The board secretary, Mr Boyd, then read out the tenders received for the lifting of the wreck as per the advertisement. John Waters offered to remove the wreck for £245, provided the Harbour Board supplied the necessary barges. William O’Connor of Mungret Street submitted a tender for £200, while George Howlett of Windmill Street quoted £250. Michael O’Farrell and Patrick O’Farrell proposed removing the wreck for £30, but requested the board to provide them with two lighters, chains, and spars.
Amidst laughter, Mr Power commented that the wreck should not be removed too quickly. The Mayor noted that Mr Twyford was making progress in the work, but it appeared that three wrecks would need removal soon. Mr Power jokingly added that Barrington’s Hospital was secure, despite the blockage of that section of the river.
Mr Holliday suggested accepting the £30 tender and finding a way to accommodate the removal team with a lighter. Mr Moroney mentioned that one of the harbour lighters had already been damaged while working on the wreck. Mr Donnellan expressed frustration at the situation, proposing a solution involving nine men on each side of the wreck cutting it into pieces. He emphasized the need for action and criticized the perceived lack of urgency.
The board agreed with Mr Donnellan’s proposal and instructed their engineer to arrange for the wreck’s removal. Mr Power echoed the sentiment, and Mr Moroney highlighted the challenge of finding skilled personnel for the task within Limerick. Mr Donnellan humorously suggested advertising or seeking assistance from Japan for the job.
Ultimately, the board recognized the need to address the year-long presence of the wreck and mandated the engineer to initiate the removal process.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 09 August 1904
