On Monday evening, a meeting of the Limerick Technical Committee was held, presided over by Mayor Alderman Joyce. In attendance were Miss Doyle, Very Rev. A. Murphy, and Messrs. William G. Peacocke, B.E.; M. McInerney, B.E.; W. I. Joyce, B.E.; K. Cole, M. Leahy, I. and Rev. Me O’Dowd. Assistant Secretary Mr McNamara was also present.
The meeting focused on the tenders received for the electric lighting of the Technical Institute. The bids came from Messrs. W. Coures & Sons (£80 10s), Messrs. Purtley Bros, Limerick (£80), and Ampere Electric Company (£97 10s). Mr Joyce raised concerns about ensuring that the work adheres to specifications, and the Secretary read the specification, indicating that the Engineer would oversee the project’s satisfactory completion.
Mr Leahy proposed that Portley Bros get the contract, citing their local presence and previous work in notable establishments. However, Father Murphy emphasized the need for competence and quality. The Mayor shared that Portley Brothers pledged to complete the work in six weeks. Mr Cole sought guarantees to avoid potential legal issues. The Mayor agreed to consult the Electrical Engineer for more information.
The idea of appointing a committee to handle the matter was agreed upon, and the meeting moved on.
Another topic discussed was the allocation of £100 for establishing a school for cookery and laundry purposes in the old town. Mr McInerney, having spoken with Father Shanahan and Father Griffin, assured their support. While the committee agreed with the proposal, the specific budget for equipping the establishment was deferred for the time being.
The Department approved the appointment of Mrs. O’Shea at Pery Square, which was deemed satisfactory.
The Rev. P. J. Dowling’s letter announced the availability of catalogues related to the recent Technical Congress for sale. The committee decided to purchase a number of copies, aware of potential audit concerns.
The meeting concluded with various matters addressed, demonstrating the committee’s commitment to furthering technical education and infrastructure in Limerick.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 29 August 1905
