Retiring Ballyconnell CU Board members
Image 1 of 2
Presentations to former Board and Oversight Committee members of Ballyconnell Credit Union in recognition of their commitment and dedication. From left: Fionnuala Leydon, Over sight Committee and Board Member; Naoimi Mitten, former Board Member and Secretary; Dolores Corrigan, former Board Chairperson and Director; Brian Donohoe, founding member and Board Chairman; Anne McGoldrick, current Credit Union Board Chairperson; Finola Brady, former Board member and Oversight Committee and Aine Finnegan, former Board member.Image 2 of 2
Fitting tribute to Brian Donohoe, one of the founding members of Ballyconnell Credit Union. From left: Gerry Lennon, Credit Union Manager: Anne McGoldrick, chairperson of the current Board and Brian Donohoe.The gregarious Brian Donohoe, who was one of the dynamic founding members of Ballyconnell Credit Union in 1986, commenced his remarks with the words ‘tempus fugit’ which is the latin for ‘time flies’.
Having contacted the ICLU for guidance,the local Credit Union was established in the Tom Reagan Hall in 1986.“Everything went from strength to strength and this was due to the commitment of a lot of people. I would like to thank everyone for their support and all the help that was given to me and the other members of the committee who have since retired,” said Brian.
He told theCeltthat there were about 20 people on the original study group including John O’Hara and the directors and Oversight Committee were formed from that committee.
He revealed that the Credit Union has moved offices four times and John O’Hara was the longest serving chairman of the Board.
Another founding member, Brian Wynne, also served as chairman, as did Brian Donohoe. The other founding members were Packie McKiernan and Eileen Ahern, who was the first Treasurer.“I could never envisage in those formative years that Ballyconnell Credit Union would be going strong today” said Brian.
The current chairperson of the Board, Anne McGoldrick said, the credit union is busy particularly with Ulster Bank and other financial institutions closing their doors.
“It is great to see Ballyconnell Credit Union remaining a steadfast part of our community - never more so than now with the provision of our new service - current accounts and debit accounts.”
The new purpose-built building was installed in 2006.
Thanking the current staff for their hard work, Anne said a lot of gratitude is also due to all past board members.
“It is wonderful that people like Brian Donohoe who saw the need for a credit union in our community and acted upon it and created such a successful service to our community and to all our members. What a commitment and achievement after serving us well for 35 years,” she said.
A famous activist one said, wisdom is knowing what to do next - virtue is doing it.“Brian, you proved to be both wise and virtuous. We wish you all the best Brian and thank you for everything,” concluded Anne.
Presentations were made to Brian and a number of other retiring members at a function last week.