The Very Reverend Canon Kavanagh, P.P., V.G., D.D., presided over a gathering where he addressed the audience with fervor and passion, delving into matters of great national importance. As the chair was taken by Canon Kavanagh, he was greeted with enthusiastic applause, setting the stage for his passionate discourse.
The initial part of the event saw Canon Kavanagh engage in the rewarding duty of distributing Feis prizes to local winners, a ceremony that he finds to be particularly gratifying. The act of awarding prizes serves as a reminder of the exceptional work accomplished in a truly superior manner. Canon Kavanagh expressed his joy in learning that the children of New Ross have excelled in their endeavours throughout the past year, demonstrating commendable dedication to learning their native language, a pursuit he considers noble and essential.
Undoubtedly animated, Canon Kavanagh underscored the significance of languages to nations, quoting the adage, “No language, no nation.” He stressed the importance of reclaiming Ireland’s language, culture, and identity, envisioning the revival of Ireland as a true nation once again, steeped in its language, songs, dances, and innate characteristics.
Drawing attention to the Gaelic League’s remarkable contributions, Canon Kavanagh celebrated their successful and patriotic efforts in Irish nationalization. He mentioned that the distinguished Dr Douglas Hyde, the president of the Gaelic League, was currently on a tour in the United States, spreading the accomplishments of the movement.
Canon Kavanagh conveyed Dr Hyde’s triumphant message, sharing that just a dozen years prior, Irish was taught in a mere handful of schools, whereas today it is integrated into over 3,000 schools across the country. The Gaelic League’s impact also extended to over a quarter of a million individuals, men and women alike, earnestly learning to speak, read, and write Irish. The progress is indeed remarkable, evident in the fact that newspapers now feature Irish columns and that the language has become essential for securing positions in major Irish corporations.
Proudly highlighting the progress in Irish education, Canon Kavanagh referenced the establishment of colleges dedicated to promoting Irish Ireland ideas. He highlighted the roles played by prominent church figures such as the Most Rev. Dr O’Donnell and His Grace the Most Rev. Dr Walsh, who had recommended establishing colleges for Irish nationalization across provinces.
In a stirring call to action, Canon Kavanagh urged his audience to reflect upon their own contributions to promoting Irish Ireland. He inquired if they had advanced the cause of the Irish language, music, song, and broader Irish interests to their full potential. If not, he exhorted them to embrace the present moment as an opportunity to propel Ireland toward a brighter future, united by the revival of their cultural heritage and language. The evening’s address from Canon Kavanagh resonated deeply, reminding the audience of their responsibility to contribute to the rejuvenation of Irish identity.
Free Press (Wexford) – Saturday 06 January 1906
