Credit union responds to criticism of reduced hours at Mayo branches
FIRST Choice Credit Union has responded to criticism over reduced opening hours at five of its branches in Mayo.
The new hours at Achill, Balla, Ballyhaunis, Swinford and Kiltimagh branches will come into effect on June 14.
Ballyhaunis Councillor Alma Gallagher has called for the decision to be reversed and dialogue opened, with a request from the local Chamber of Commerce to meet with the board.
First Choice Credit Union says it has seen a reduction in members using in-branch services and the changes will allow it support areas where there is increasing demand.
A representative of the credit union stated: “First Choice Credit Union has always been member centric, adapting where necessary to meet changing member needs and expectations of their credit union.
“Over recent years FCCU has seen a decrease in transaction levels carried out in our branches. The reduction in member demand for in-branch services has been accompanied by a significant increase in member demand for our phone, online and current account/debit card services.
“First Choice Credit Union has invested substantially in expanding services to meet the broader needs of our diverse membership across our common bond.
“The change to branch hours, being implemented from mid-June, will enable us to support the areas that are seeing increasing member demand, while also continuing to offer in-branch personal face to face services locally, together with safeguarding the credit union’s long-term strength and sustainability.
“Indeed, the re-launch of our annual Community Fund this week, at an increased level of €150,000, is just one indication of our commitment to the development and continued vibrancy of all the communities we serve.
“Members who have any questions regarding the changes can contact our offices or email info@fccu.ie.”
Councillor Gallagher said she was 'shocked' to read the notice on the front door of the Ballyhaunis branch that outlined the changes, with the branches being reduced to a three-day week with the exception of Balla which has been reduced to one day.
“The decision goes against the ethos of what credit unions represent,” said Councillor Gallagher. “A credit union is an organisation of people for people. It exists only to serve its members - not to profit from their needs and continues that Irish tradition of cooperative self-help. It prides itself on customer interaction and engagement.”
She cited Ballyhaunis as being 'unique', with a growing population, and designated under the Town Centre First initiative.
“We are asking people to stay local, shop local, wanting to attract new business and vibrancy into our town but yet our own credit union is deciding to shrink its business hours without any explanation or rational.
“I am appealing to the board of First Choice Credit Union to reverse its decision to shrink its business hours to three days a week. I am appealing for more dialogue and transparency with its members and support Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce in their request for a meeting with the board.
“Reduction in access to essential financial services has a profound impact on a town like Ballyhaunis, for residents of rural areas particularly those without reliable internet access or digital literacy. Our local credit union is crucial for day-to-day financial functioning of our town.”