Crossroads for credit union movement

For years they have helped promote the values of thrift in local communities but the credit union sector is fragile due to some poor lending practices in the boom and so many debtors being unable to repay loans, says Kyran Fitzgerald

IRELAND has reason to be proud of its community based co-operative savings and loans institutions.

There are over 500 credit unions across the country. They have helped to promote the values of thrift in neglected communities, saving many from penury in the process.