6 September 2022
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
Cork Credit Unions have reported a ‘flurry of current account openings’ over the last few months as customers switch from banks – although there are savings caps in many credit unions of €15,000-30,000 so for many it is not a full banking alternative
Eleven Credit Unions across Cork City and County recently launched a campaign to encourage people to switch to them for their current account services. The campaign has resulted in thousands of customers opening current accounts with them where they will avail of services like overdrafts and direct debit facilities. Credit unions have expanded their offerings over the years and now offer a range of services such as current accounts and mortgages. The campaign was launched in response to the announcement from a number of banks that they are leaving the Irish market.
The eleven credit unions involved in the campaign have 22 offices across Cork City and County. The credit unions are Access, Douglas, First South, Gurranabraher, Macroom Synergy, HSSCU, Bishopstown Mallow, St Paul’s, Youghal.
The Irish League of Credit Unions said that nationwide around 50,000 people have now switched their current accounts from banks to credit unions.
Credit unions offer extremely competitive rates, with current account management fees starting at just €4 per month. They also offer free banking for students. Credit union current account users also have free direct debit and standing order processing. The current accounts at the credit unions are also compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay and Fitbit Pay and offer a globally accepted Mastercard Debit Card. In addition, the credit unions offer a mobile app and eStatements.
Gary Hanrahan of Cork Credit Unions said: “We are delighted that people are seeing the value that Credit Unions can offer and that they are making the switch. Switching your current account to the Credit Union can be easily done and we are here to support you along the way. Credit unions remain at the heart of communities all over Ireland and each credit union is involved with giving back locally between sponsorship and charity. We are delighted to welcome new members and we look forward to welcoming even more over the coming months.”
Back Row L-R: Kieran Quinn (Yougal CU), Brian Neville (Gurranabraher CU), Simon Foley (St. Pauls), Roy McKnight (Douglas CU), Tony Hughes (Access CU), Ciara Fitzgerald (Mallow CU)
Front Row L-R: Georgie Cantwell (First South CU), Philip Hosford (Bishopstown CU), Alan Duff (HSSCU)
Pic: Brian Lougheed