IN DECEMBER, Madeline McCarthy celebrated fifty years of service to the Credit Union movement in Co. Clare.
A recent reception held at The Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis saw the board and staff of St Francis Credit Union celebrate the milestone.
Madeleine was elected as a Director of Fergus Credit Union in 1973 where she served as Secretary for a short time until she took on the role of Treasurer, she held this position until 2013 when she became Chairperson.
During her time with Fergus Credit Union, Madeleine was Chapter delegate for Fergus Credit Union in Chapter 13 and she attended where possible every ILCU AGM. In 2014 Fergus & St Francis Credit Union commenced merger discussions with Madeleine leading the Fergus Credit Union Delegation in these discussions. The Transfer of Engagements process between Fergus & St Francis CU was completed in September 2014 at which time Madeleine joined the Board of St Francis Credit Union.
Such was the impact that Madeline made on the new board that she became vice chairperson in 2015 and in 2018 when the Chairperson’s position became vacant Madeleine was duly elected to the position. During her time on the Board Madeleine was involved with successful merger talks with Sixmilebridge Credit Union in 2015 and more recently in 2021, with the equally successful Transfer of Engagements with Shannon Credit Union.
The wealth of credit union experience, knowledge and understanding that Madeleine brings to every level of Board discussions has been vital to the continued success that St Francis Credit Union has enjoyed in recent years and the respect that all those who interact with her within the credit union movement is immense.
Speaking about her time in the Credit Union, Madeline reflected, “I have always considered it a privilege to be a volunteer in the credit union movement which has been a lifeline for many people living in our communities over the years. I am proud to be a part of credit unions who always put the credit union member at the heart of everything they do, continue to push boundaries, are service driven, member centered and are continuously adapting to changing market sentiment. I am proud to be part of a movement that has such an impact on people’s lives”.
She added, “Credit Unions have long been supporters of local communities across Ireland especially now at a time where more and more banks are choosing to leave the Irish market or close branches in rural areas. We continue to see the incredible trust and support our members put in us year after year”.
