New credit union merger officially launched in Athlone
West-Midlands Credit Union was officially launched on Friday at a special event in Athlone by Mayor of Athlone/Moate Municipal District and Fianna Fáil Councillor Vinny McCormack.
The launch marks the successful merger of St. Jarlath’s Credit Union and Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union, creating a financial institution with more than €465 million in member assets, over 80,000 members, and 14 branches across Galway, Roscommon and Westmeath.
The Athlone celebration drew large crowds, with members enjoying refreshments, competitions, goodie bags and a special guest appearance by one of Westmeath’s most celebrated footballers, James Dolan. To add to the entertainment, iRadio broadcast live from the Irishtown branch on the day
Over recent months, West-Midlands Credit Union offices have undergone a full rebrand and many have been refurbished, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to delivering a modern and accessible member experience, underpinned by personal service and community connection. West-Midlands Credit Union offers a full suite of financial services, including current accounts, debit cards, mobile banking, mortgages, personal loans, savings, pensions, and investments. Lending decisions will remain local, with dedicated lending teams operating in each branch.
Commenting on the official launch of the new brand, Marise O’Toole, Deputy CEO said: “Today marks an exciting new chapter for West-Midlands Credit Union in Athlone. This launch represents the strength that comes from uniting our experience, resources and passion for the communities we serve.
“Our members can expect the same friendly, local service they know and trust, now backed by the scale to deliver even more. From current accounts and savings to mortgages, personal loans and financial advice, we are here to support every stage of our member’s financial journeys – always with their needs at the heart of what we do.”
Mayor of Athlone and Moate, Cllr Vinny McCormack, said the presence of so many community leaders at the launch was testatment to the central role of the credit union in the community.
He said it was not just a financial institution, but a real part of the community, member-owned and a strong supporter of local community events.
“Generations of Athlone people have used this credit union here and this merger going forward will give that opportunity to future generations.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions, and Insurance, Robert Troy , said: “Credit Unions remain trusted, community financial services providers, and the recent confirmation of lending increases is a positive development for the sector. West-Midlands Credit Union has a strong asset and member base thanks to this amalgamation, and I look forward to the continued progress this new brand can make. Credit unions and their future are a priority for this Government, including the development of a wider strategy for the sector which I will be leading on during my time as Minister.”
West-Midlands Credit Union, regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland, serves the communities of Tuam, Headford, Mountbellew, Glenamaddy, Athlone, Castlerea, Dunmore, Williamstown, Glinsk, Abbeyknockmoy, Turloughmore, Corrandulla, and Moylough.