Portloise resident takes the reins of big Laois Kildare credit union

One of the biggest credit unions in Laois and Kildare has announced the appointment of JJ Carey as the new Chair of its Board of Directors.

In a statment to the Leinster Express Laois Live, People First Credit Union says JJ Carey was recently elected by his fellow directors and will lead the credit union which it says serves over 40,000 members across two counties with offices in Abbeyleix, Athy, Portlaoise, and Stradbally.

In electing a new Chair, the Portlaoise headquarted credit union paid tribute to Clive Davis, who has retired from the position of Chair. He has given 19 years of service in various roles within the organisation.

The statment said the "leadership, commitment and dedication" given by Mr Davis have been instrumental in shaping the "strong, modern" credit union that members know today.

Originally from the Ballinasloe area of Co Galway, Mr Carey lives in Portlaoise with his wife and young children.  The holder of an MSc Healthcare Management and BA Honours in Social Care Practice, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Supported Living and CLaD Hub Services at Nua Healthcare Services.

Mr Carey spoke following his election by the People First Board. COMMENTS BELOW PHOTO.

Pictured: JJ Carey.

"It is a profound honour to have been elected Chair of People First Credit Union that has been serving the people of Abbeyleix, Athy, Portlaoise and Stradbally for generations. I am deeply grateful to my fellow Directors for their confidence, and to our members for the trust they continue to place in their Credit Union.

"People First Credit Union is much more than a provider of savings and loans; it is a living expression of co-operative values, placing members and their communities at the centre of every decision. With over 40,000 members and a dedicated team across our four branches, I believe we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to support financial wellbeing, inclusion and opportunity for individuals, families, community groups and local enterprises.

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"In a world with so much uncertainty at present, my strategic focus as Chair is clear: to safeguard the long-term stability and sustainability of People First Credit Union while continuing to innovate and grow in response to members’ needs. This means strengthening our digital and in-branch services, expanding our support for community organisations and social enterprises, and ensuring that every product we offer reflects our core purpose of putting people first.

"It also means upholding the highest standards of governance, risk management and compliance so that members’ savings are always protected and the Credit Union remains robust for future generations," he said.

He said communityis key to People First.

"Central to this vision is a continued commitment to community impact. Through initiatives such as our Community Fund and community lending, People First Credit Union will deepen its role as a partner to local clubs, charities and voluntary groups, helping them to deliver projects that enrich community life across our common bond. By aligning our strategy with the real needs and aspirations of our members and communities, we will ensure that growth is always matched by social value," he said.

He praised staff and fellow board members.

"I want to pay warm tribute to our management team and staff whose professionalism, empathy and local knowledge underpin the quality of service members experience every day, whether at the counter, on the phone, or online. I also wish to sincerely thank my fellow volunteer directors and committee members, past and present, whose stewardship and dedication have shaped the strong, modern credit union we are privileged to lead," he said.

He concluded with a message to members across two counties.

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"Thank you for your loyalty, engagement and belief in the co-operative difference. Your continued support is the foundation on which we will build the next chapter of People First Credit Union’s story.

Together, as members, volunteers and staff, we will continue to put people first, strengthening our credit union and the communities it serves for many years to come," he said.

People First said it would continues to play an active role in supporting financial wellbeing and community development across its common bond, providing savings, loans, and a range of financial services to its growing membership base.  It said The credit union looks forward to working with Mr Carey to ensure continued growth, innovation, and impact for the benefit of its members and local communities.