South Dublin credit unions scoop five out of 11 categories

CREDIT Unions from South and West Dublin stole the limelight at the Ireland Credit Union Awards 2024, by winning 5 out of 11 categories.

For the second year in a row, a “fantastic amount of votes” handed out the Members Choice Award to Palmerstown Credit Union, who were honoured to have one of their members awarded “Employee of the Year” too.

Known for “embodying the ethos and history of Palmerstown Credit Union,” winner Margaret Dooley grew from administrative roles to become the Banking and Office Supervisor. She now celebrated an “inspiring ten-year journey” with the Credit Union by collecting this award.

“Her exceptional rapport with members and colleagues, coupled with her meticulous attention to detail and organisational skills, ensures a welcoming environment and smooth transitions during changes, such as the introduction of online services,” the Credit Union Awards Board said.

“Her kindness and thoughtfulness extend to personal gestures that uplift her colleagues, creating a joyful and supportive workplace. Margaret’s unwavering commitment to excellence and community engagement makes her an invaluable asset to PCU.”

Putting in as much hard work as employees, volunteers Margaret Fitzsimons and Annette Ennis from Tallaght West Credit Union jointly picked up the Volunteer of the Year Award.

“These two founding members of the credit union, established in 1982 to serve the disadvantaged community of West Tallaght, have provided 42 years of continuous service,” said the CU Awards Board.

“Both Ennis and Fitzsimons held key leadership roles, including Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, and remained actively involved in various committees and training events to keep their skills current. “Their long-standing dedication is integral to the credit union’s success, making them exemplary nominees for this recognition.”

Their joy was even greater as this was the first time Tallaght West Credit Union was nominated for the CU Awards since their introduction in 2022.

“It’s going to be a bigger and bigger event, so it was great to be part of it,” said Finance Manager at Tallaght West Credit Union, Ashling Saul, who praised the two volunteers’ contribution to the team. A foundational member of Kilnamanagh Credit Union, Marie Sealy received the Lifetime Achievement Award, for “her exceptional dedication since the credit union’s inception in 1986.”

“Her instrumental involvement in constructing the credit union’s premises and maintaining continuous professional development highlights her commitment to excellence and regulatory compliance,” said the CU Awards Board.

“Marie has also served as a Chapter Delegate, contributing significantly to the Irish League of Credit Unions and fostering international cooperation by hosting delegations from abroad.

“Beyond her official roles, she engages with the community as a Quizmaster for local schools and has consistently attended AGM conventions since 1987, demonstrating her unwavering support for the credit union movement.”

Within the city borders, Donore Credit Union was awarded for the Best Marketing Initiative, while member Ellie Waldron was their “Rising Star of the Year.” According to the CU Awards Board, Donore CU grew their follower base from 36 in 2019 to 710 in 2024. “With a small team of just one parttime person and a credit controller, Donore Credit Union managed to generate engagement and following metrics comparable to much larger credit unions.

“Their success recorded on LinkedIn especially centres around informative and educational posts, highlighting industry news, community sponsorships, and notable events.

“Their success is a testament to their ability to build brand awareness and professional credibility through targeted, non-promotional content.”

Over 400 people attended the Credit Union Awards night at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, in Dublin Airport, on Saturday, October 19. Ireland Credit Union Awards were established in 2022 to celebrate and commemorate the dedication of Credit Unions’ staff, volunteers and directors.

They are run by Michael Byrne, CEO of Core Credit Union, and Sean Staunton, CEO of Progressive Credit Union. To learn more, visit www.cuawards.ie.