Credit Union Day: St Canice's Credit Union - The growth years - 1995 to 2004

In 1995, a credit union branch was established at CBS Secondary School in Kilkenny to teach students financial management and give them control over their finances. Students ran the branch, supported by training and resources from St Canice’s CU.

The credit union continued to sponsor the senior hurling championship and Kilkenny Arts Week. Member draws and youth engagement activities, including the scholarship draw, quizzes, and an art competition, were highlights.

In 1996, a major refurbishment of the High Street office was undertaken, and to facilitate the major reconstruction, the credit union temporarily relocated to the old Avonmore House (now the Hibernian Hotel).

The refit provided more space for members and an ATM machine was also installed - one of the few credit unions to have one at the time. Additionally, a low-cost start-up business loan was launched to support small local businesses to get established.

The following year, 1997, saw the official opening of the newly refurbished office by Norman Murphy, President of the Irish League of Credit Unions. Kilkenny hosted the Credit Union Junior Cycle Tour of Ireland, which was one of the year’s highlights and Irish cyclist Sean Kelly attended and presented prizes. Freshford National School reached the national finals of the schools quiz, a fantastic achievement. Niamh Conroy won the Scholarship Draw and community support continued through sponsorship of the GAA, Junior Open Week at Kilkenny Tennis Club, Kilkenny Arts Week, Basketball League, and Ossory Youth. Additionally, the Credit Union paid a 5% dividend to members.

1998 was an especially busy year for the credit union. Paddy Fry retired after 30 years of dedicated service, having served as credit controller, manager, director, and president. Claire Lawton was appointed the new manager, bringing a wealth of experience from her background in financial services.

One of the major highlights was the launch of the School Millennium Project, which established credit unions in both primary and secondary schools throughout the common bond. Each school was provided with a computer, stationery, and training to get started. The SmartStart Student Account Package was introduced for third-level students, while June 1998 saw the publication of the first issue of the credit union newsletter, designed as a new way to communicate with members. Travel insurance was also introduced, adding another layer of service for the members.

From 1999 to 2001, the credit union significantly expanded its range of services, introducing a Quickpay facility, Death Benefit Insurance, Travel insurance, and Repayment Protection Insurance. In addition to paying an annual dividend on savings in these years, it also paid a 10% loan interest rebate to members.

The credit union’s newsletter became very popular among members, and featured competitions with prizes such as travel money, weekend getaways, and cash. During this period, the credit union implemented a new management structure and staff increased to 35.

Community support remained central to the credit union. It continued to sponsor junior tennis, basketball, GAA and Arts Week, reflecting its commitment to local sports and culture. A special milestone was the celebration of the 100th birthdays of two long-time members, Michael Dwyer and Birdie Phelan.

From 2002 to 2004, as St Canice’s Credit Union celebrated its 40th anniversary, it continued to grow and support the local community. During these years, financial support was extended to Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre, Ossory Youth, Kilkenny Music Festival, Battle of the Bands, Kilkenny City Harriers, the Special Olympics, St Luke’s Hospital, the Watergate Theatre, and many more.

The Euro
The introduction of the Euro on January 1 2002, brought some challenges. Special term savings accounts of three and five years were offered, and from 2004, Death Benefit Insurance was provided free of charge to eligible members. Various loan promotions were introduced to encourage members to take out car loans.

The scholarship prize was increased to €1,500 for up to four years and as part of the SmartStart student package, students received a 14" TV and also had the chance to win computers.

The Car Draw, launched in April 2004, was another exciting addition for members.
These years were marked by celebration, service enhancements and strong community involvement, reinforcing St Canice’s commitment to its members and the broader community.