Mullingar CU AGM agrees change of name to North Midlands Credit Union
At the recent annual general meeting of Mullingar Credit Union, members passed a resolution to change the name of Mullingar Credit Union to North Midlands Credit Union.
The rationale and criteria behind the proposal was presented in the annual report, which was distributed to all members in advance of the annual general meeting.
Mullingar Credit Union was formed in 1962, when it was called St Colman’s Credit Union.
In the early 1980s the members voted to change the name to Mullingar Credit Union, reflecting the expansion in membership that had taken place over the previous years.
The credit union has now reached another chapter in its life.
Following considerable expansion in recent years, the board of directors recognised that the name Mullingar did not adequately embrace the large geographical area or population covered by the now greatly enlarged common bond.
Following the transfer of engagements from Rochfortbridge, Kinnegad, Castlepollard and Longford Credit Unions, the common bond now stretches from the north Longford border south across Westmeath to Rhode in north Offaly, and from Ballynacargy to Kinnegad.
The board considered a possible name change over a considerable period of time and had agreed that a possible new name should:
• be non-denominational, non-ethnic, non-generic; not specifically reference Mullingar, Westmeath or Longford; allow for possible further expansion in the future; be inclusive, recognisable and elicit a sense of belonging and ownership for all members.
Following the decision at the annual general meeting to change the name, a considerable amount of work will be required before the change can be implemented, and it will therefore be later in the year before the change actually takes place.
It is important to remember, however, that regardless of the name change the credit union ethos and values will remain, said manager, Tom Allen.
“Our staff will continue to provide the same friendly, professional service to our members as before.
“At a time when other financial institutions are closing down or withdrawing services, we are committed to serving the financial needs of the people in our community,” Mr Allen said.