Mountmellick Credit Union puts down roots in Clonaslee with rebuilt office

Mountmellick Credit Union (CU) has opened a new trading chapter with opening of a rebuilt office in Clonaslee.

Officially reopened for business from Friday, June 20, Mountmellick CU says the event marks a “quiet but meaningful” return to a permanent presence in the village, after several years of providing a limited weekly service from Clonaslee Community Centre.

It adds that the reopening also represents something very important to Mountmellick Credit Union which they say is a renewed commitment to our members in Clonaslee and surrounding areas.

Pictured: the new office before renovations

They says that time and care was taken to build a dedicated long-lasting space where members can continue to access face-to-face financial services in a supportive, local setting.

The statement said Mountmellick CU is especially grateful to Clonaslee Community Centre, who generously welcomed us into their space every Friday afternoon during the rebuild.

They also recognised the strong community connection that helped sustain our service during the past few years. As a community-based organisation, the statement said Mountmellick CU shares a common mission with Clonaslee Community Centre: to serve local people, support their wellbeing, and provide resources that make life better.

It said this partnership allowed it to remain present in the village and continue offering vital financial services — something they are deeply grateful for. The statment adds that the reopening of a permanent office now strengthens that shared commitment to community.

Mountmellick CU say they we believe money matters are best handled close to home — with people you know and trust. They say that means being present, being accessible, and being part of the communities they serve — whether in Clonaslee, Mountmellick, or Rathangan.

The statement said they also recognise the particular importance of keeping services local in rural areas, and are proud to be investing in that future.

In designing the new branch, Mountmellick CU says member experience and dignity were to the fore. To this end they have introduced a dedicated private meeting area where members can speak in confidence with the loans team.

They say this improved privacy is just one way they are making sure members feel supported, respected, and empowered in every financial conversation.

Andrew Barrett is Mountmellick CU CEO.

“We’d also like to thank the people of Clonaslee for their patience as the project took shape — a little longer than anticipated, perhaps, but we hope they will agree the result is worth the wait," Mr Barrett said.

"It’s a space for members to get support, ask questions, and feel valued. That’s what being part of a credit union is all about,” he said.

Mountmellick Credit Union was established in May 1968, and opened for membership three days later in the Town Hall, Mountmellick.

Clonaslee was the location for its first sub-office. Rathangan CU transferred to Mountmellick CU in 2021.