CHRISTCHURCH CELTIC CLUB

New Zealand Tablet, 13 June 1918, Page 29

CHRISTCHURCH CELTIC CLUB

A meeting of the Christchurch Celtic Club (Mr - James Curry presiding) was held in the Hibernian Hall on Tuesday evening, May 28. There were present— Fathers Long, Eogarty, Carroll, and Ilartnett, and a large number of members. Eleven new members were elected, and nine nominated. At the next meeting there will be a debate, the subject being, " Which Party— Sinn Fein or Nationalist—is doing the best work in the interests of Home Rule for Ireland ?" Fathers Long and Fogarty are to judge the debate. It was decided to give an entertainment on July 4, to conclude with the Irish comedy, "Uncle Pat." Father Fogarty then delivered an interesting and instructive lecture on " Sinn Fein." At its conclusion, Father ■ Fogarty, whose treatment of the subject was frequently applauded, was accorded a hearty vote of thanks; and Father Hartnett, in complimenting the lecturer, made eloquent reference to the power of the press in its misguidance of the public, and related some of his own experiences of Easter, 191 in Ireland. The business of the evening having terminated, the opportunity was availed of to make a presentation on behalf of the Hibernian Society to P.P. Pro. J. Flannelly, who was down on final leave from camp. Pro. J. Jacques, president of St. Patrick's Branch, referred to the highly efficient manner in which Pro. Flannelly had carried out his duties whilst president, and besides being the youngest brother to hold the position so far, was also the first president of the branch to be called to active service at the front. Father Long, in presenting Pro. Flannelly with a P.P. Collar, expressed his pleasure at the appreciation shown the recipient, who had been a model of constancy, and whose work had been faithfully carried out in every detail. He wished Pro. Flannelly a safe period of service and a speedy return. Pros. M. Grimes, P. Smyth, P. Pearce, and T. P. O'Rourke, on behalf of the branch ; Sister D. Smyth, P.P. for St. Matthew's (Ladies) branch: I and Pro. J. Curry for the Celtic Club, made eulogistic references to the valuable services rendered by Pro. Flannelly; and all hoped to see him once again amongst them "on active service.'' Pro. Flannelly expressed his deep gratitude for the handsome collar and the many kind references made to his work in the past. If success, he said, had attended his efforts, he could thank the support accorded him by his brother officers. St. Matthew's Branch had been most generous towards him during his term of office, and he wished

the sisters and the Celtic Club every success. During the evening several musical and elocutionary items were given. Refreshments were served, and the proceedings terminated with the singing of " God Save Ireland." During his final leave Mr Flannelly has been the recipient of a sovereign case from the Celtic Club, a wristlet watch from Smith's fender factory, where he was employed before going to camp, and from Mr Dickson and staff of the Carleton Cafe a safety razor and money belt.