Concerns Voiced Over Credit Union Future In Multiple Midlands Towns

Monday, 22 January 2024 08:55

A former Credit Union director is voicing his concern over the consequences of possible closures.

There's fears a number of midlands credit unions are facing closure, if concerns aren't raised at an AGM today.

The branch in Mountrath only opens three days per week, while Durrow and Rathdowney are open two days every week, following a reduction in their hours in recent years.

St. Canice's Credit Union is holding its Annual General Meeting in Hotel Kilkenny today at 7.30pm, and members are being urged to raise their concerns with the group.

Former Director of Rathdowney Credit Union, and Fianna Fáil Candidate for the Borris in Ossory and Mountmellick MD, Brian Phelan, says older people are being impacted by the reduced hours:

St. Canice's Credit Union says there are no plans to close any of its Laois branches.

It says the decision to reduce hours at some of the branches in the county were taken following a review of activity and footfall taking into account member needs and usage patterns.

It also says it engaged with local representatives regarding the moves, to make sure communication is fair and clear.

A spokesperson for the Credit Union says it is committed to maintaining a presence in all three areas.

In a statement to Midlands 103, St. Canice's Credit Union says:

"I can confirm that there are no plans to close any of our Laois branches.

Opening hours were adjusted in a number of our branches in recent months.

The decisions were made in all cases following a review of activity and footfall taking into account member needs and usage patterns.

We have engaged with local representatives in each of the communities to ensure we are fair and clear in our communications.

The branch in Mountrath is open to our members 3 days a week, Rathdowney is open 2 days a week as is Durrow. St. Canice’s Credit Union remains committed to maintaining our presence in these three locations and our full opening hours across our branch network are available on our website www.stcanicescu.ie."