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Pat Smyth, a civil servant with the National Assistance Board in West Tyrone from the 1930's to the 1950's, recalls his memories, experiences and the larger than life personalities he encountered on the way.
The following letter needs little explanation. The reference to a 'station' prompted me to hoard this historic epistle. This was a term used for places where priests said Mass i.e. outstations.
In Tyrone the Catholic tradition of taking Mass and the Sacraments to the people assembled at appointed houses prevailed long after it had died elsewhere. Mass and Sacraments were offered at a selected house in the rural area once a year, especially for the benefit of people without transport, probably a relic of the Penal Days.
Congregations comprised near neighbours, and a different venue was set for the following year and announced a year in advance. Dues were collected on the occasion. Between Ash Wednesday and Trinity Sunday was the time appointed for Catholics to attend to their 'Easter duty' of receiving the Sacraments once a year.
"Co. Tyrone, Mon. 10th March '52
Sir,
I here make application for National Assistance. I made an application recently and was turned down the cause was unknown to me as I am a man eligible for Assistance. I am in bad health. I was in Hospital for six months. I nearly died. I am in bad health yet I am in poverty and in bad health.
Doctor Lagan, Campsie Avenue, Omagh can certify same. So can House Surgeon Tyrone County Hospital. I lay in Hospital at death door. My case is miserable, such circumstances any Inspector who investigates my case will see for himself. (My appearance I mean). I must prove my case I am in want nod delicate bad stomach. I cannot eat only certain foods.
Doctor knows (work is my enemy) (so workhouse is my end). So for 2nd time I apply for Assistance on grounds of wants. (Points to be observed). 1. Bad health, 2. Want, 3. No home, 4. Want of proper food, 5 Want of fire, I mean heat in wintry weather. 6. Need Assistance to aide in my old age.
That Tribunal which investigated my Appeal did wrongfully turn my Appeal down without even looking at my person a moment and saying to themselves, Barney is entitled to Assistance by look of his appearance. In case I might not be at home or I mean in a station any place would you kindly drop me a note and say what day your Inspector calls I certainly would not like having Inspector motoring about and not seeing me.
I remain your humble Servant
Barney"
Pat Smyth, 2001
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