On Tuesday, 24th November, we dealt with second stage of the Credit Union Restructuring Board (Dissolution) Bill 2019. This bill dissolves the Board and transfers functions to the Central Bank of Ireland.

The Board was originally established to help restructure and strengthen credit unions which play a vital role in communities across our country. Through mergers and amalgamations and new technology, credit unions have been able to expand and offer more services to members both individuals and organisations.

Aside from the great work the late John Hume undertook, he was also a strong advocate for credit unions. Having been pivotal to setting up a credit union in Derry, he travelled around Ireland speaking on their value and importance.