Credit Union Day: Remembering the '70s and '80s, and 'the year of the computer' for St Canice's Credit Union in Kilkenny

Between 1975 and 1980, St Canice's Credit Union experienced a period of significant progress. Gus Murray was elected President of the Irish League of Credit Unions. Paddy Fry was appointed as Credit Controller and the common bond was extended include the areas of Tullaroan and Clara. An essay competition was also launched, and the credit union welcomed its 10,000th member.

The Year of the Computer
Looking back, 1979 is remembered as the year of the computer for the credit union. The decision to purchase the first computer was carefully considered, with the Board spending over a year discussing and planning its purchase.

By the end of 1979, the computer was fully operational, marking a significant transition from the old machine system.
The process of transferring all financial records required considerable effort and dedication. In the 1979 annual report, President Eddie Mackey reflected, “I have never seen so much co-operation and hard work being put into a project by so many people.”

Office Extension
For some time, the Board had been aware of the growing shortage of space and sought a solution that would avoid another move. In June 1980, a resolution came with the purchase of the premises of James Healy & Co on Kieran Street, which adjoined the back of the existing office.

Planning permission for a new office building had already been granted, and it was hoped to begin works in 1981. In 1982 the site was demolished and cleared for development and by 1983 tenders were invited for the proposed development.
Between 1980 and 1984, the credit union implemented a number of initiatives. The 1981, 1982, and 1983 calendars were printed on Irish linen and featured scenes of Kilkenny. A presidential chain of office, designed and crafted by a Kilkenny silversmith, was purchased. The credit union also contributed £1,000 to Kilkenny Corporation for the purchase of litter bins to be placed around the city while, to support local businesses, the credit union offered free display space in its windows on High Street to local businesses that did not have their own shop windows.
In 1982, 12 benches were presented to Kilkenny Corporation. To encourage saving, a new draw was established. Prizes included a weekend trip to London, a bicycle, a TV, a vacuum cleaner, watches, and other items.

Gus Murray
Augustine (Gus) Murray, a founding member and director of St Canice’s Credit Union, reached the height of his involvement in the credit union movement in April 1975 when he was elected President of the Irish League of Credit Unions.
Gus’s journey with credit unions began with the establishment of St Canice’s in 1964, where he served as treasurer until 1972.
READ NEXT: THE MODEST BEGINNINGS OF ST CANICE'S CREDIT UNION