"894-95-3 2 °3 



communication between them, and that as frequently as possible 

 the members of the various Clubs should meet each other ? 

 These questions have had the earnest consideration of the Sec- 

 retaries of the Irish Field Clubs for some months past, and the 

 result of their consultations will shortly assume the form of a 

 definite proposal. It is suggested, in short, that an Irish Field 

 Club Union should be formed, the business pertaining to which 

 will be carried on by a Committee composed of representatives 

 of all the Clubs ; that the Union should have for its objects the 

 consideration of matters of general Field Club importance, the 

 providing of mutual help among the Clubs, and the bringing 

 about, by means of joint meetings and otherwise, of a closer 

 and more frequent intercourse. Pending the general conference 

 of the Irish Clubs, which it is proposed to hold next summer, 

 a memorandum, embodying the above suggestions, will shortly 

 be submitted to each Club, in order that the benefits which will 

 arise from the Union may come into operation as early as 

 possible. At next year's conference it is confidently anticipated 

 that the foundations will be laid of a true and lasting Union, 

 a bond of sympathy and friendship and scientific entercourse 

 that will help the Clubs in their work, and stimulate them in 

 their forward march ; a Union which will be a pillar of strength 

 to the Field Clubs, an aid to British Science, and a credit to 

 Ireland. 



The President and Joseph Wright spoke in favour of the 

 scheme, and William Gray, M.R.I. A., offered some criticism on 

 the subject of such an alliance, but was in favour of such joint 

 meetings. 



F. J. Bigger, Honorary Secretary, in supporting the matter 

 brought forward by R. LI. Praeger, said it was not contemplated 

 that the individuality of any Club nor their controlling power 

 over their own work should be interfered with in any way, but 

 that a central committee of all the Clubs should be appointed 

 for carrying on general work. The matter would be decided in 

 Committee, but the present opportunity was given to the 

 members of discussing the proposal. 



