Meeting of the Irish and British Reformers of Quebec

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The meeting of Irish and British Reformers, which had been spoken of for some days, was held, pursuant to public notice by placards, on the evening of the 15th inst., in Mr. Blakiston's large rooms, opposite the new custom-house, Quebec. Considerable interest was excited in regard to this meeting, and some efforts were made to induce the honest Irish reformers of that city to keep aloof and forbear the manifestation of those feelings of honest indignation, and sense of injustice, so universal throughout the province, on the proposed measures of the Imperial government, which produced it. But liberty and justice, like truth, are powerful, and will prevail. Mr. Mich. McConnolly was called on to preside, and Mr. O'Kane appointed secretary. The meeting was confined, with a few, worthy and honourable exceptions, to the mechanic and operative class. We are informed by our correspondent that some little noise took place at the opening of the meeting, in consequence of the presence of one of the proprietors of the Little Herald, well known for his unfriendly disposition, and the hostility which already characterise this journal, against reformers, particularly the British and Irish portion, who identify themselves with the Canadian people, in opposition to the abuses and disorders, which provoke and continue all the agitation and discontent of the province. He retired however in good humour, apparently satisfied, that from the opinions he holds on the affairs of the province, he was not one of those, contemplated by the call of the meeting. The chairman having briefly explained the object of the meeting, and urged the necessity of energy and union, read the resolutions, and afterward put them separately from the chair. They all passed, we are informed, not only unanimously, but with an intensity and demonstration of feeling, far beyond any anticipation. The rooms were crowded to excess, and some were for adjourning to the large yard; we are happy to learn that there were not less than from 250 to 300 persons present. The good order, unanimity, and deep interest which distinguished the whole, writes our correspondent, speak highly of the good sense, firmness, and intelligence and patriotism of the Irish and British reformers of Quebec, and shew they are men who may be relied on in the hour of need.

The association contemplated by the last resolution was formed, and a President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary chosen, also a committee of 15, for the management of the society. Upwards of 70 individuals subscribed their names as members. The meeting separated, giving three hearty cheers for O'Connell; three cheers for the talented minority; and three cheers for the new Irish and British reform association. The following are the Resolutions:

1. Resolved: That the rights of the people of Canada to appropriate all monies arising therein, whether levied by the acts of their own Representatives, or by the Acts of the Imperial Parliament, for the regulation of trade, and sanctioned of acquiesced in by the said people through their Representatives, is a right founded on the natural right of property, acknowledged and secured to all British subjects, and cannot be assailed or abrogated by any power in the State without manifest and radical injustice, and a violation of the constitutional compact which binds the people of this colony with the Parent State.

2. Resolved:

3. Resolved:

4. Resolved:

5. Resolved:

6. Resolved:

7. Resolved:

8. Resolved:

The Vindicator
May 23, 1837