FCCU turns 60!

A message from our Chairperson, Peter Mooney.

As Chairperson of the Board of Directors of First Choice Credit Union, it gives me immense pleasure to mark this very special occasion — 60 years of service to the people of Castlebar and the surrounding communities of Achill, Balla, Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh and Swinford that have become part of First Choice Credit Union through the years.

Sixty years is a remarkable milestone. It represents six decades of trust, friendship, community and shared endeavour. More importantly, it represents the thousands of members, volunteers and staff who, over the years, have contributed to making First Choice Credit Union the strong, trusted and successful organisation it is today.

From our beginnings in 1966, our purpose has remained constant: to provide a trusted, accessible and community-focused financial service where members are at the heart of everything we do. While the way people manage their finances has changed enormously over this period, those founding principles remain as relevant and as strong as ever in 2026 for this credit union.

Our journey has been one of continual growth and development. We have invested in our buildings, our people, our technology and our services to ensure that we can meet the ever evolving needs of our members. We have always strived to provide a welcoming environment offering personal care and attention when members come to use our services in line with the credit union ethos.

Technology has transformed the way we serve our members. Our digital and online services provide greater convenience and flexibility which allows members to manage their finances in ways that suit them best. Yet, even in an increasingly digital world, we remain firmly rooted in our community and committed to that personal service that has always defined First Choice Credit Union.

As we celebrate 60 years, it is important to remember that our greatest asset has been our people.

I want to pay tribute to the generations of volunteers who have given their time, knowledge and commitment to the credit union. I also extend my sincere appreciation to our dedicated staff, past and present, whose professionalism and commitment have played such an important role in our success.

Most of all, I thank our members. Your loyalty, trust and continued support have enabled First Choice Credit Union to grow and thrive over the past 60 years.

As we celebrate our past, we also look forward with optimism to the years ahead. The financial landscape will continue to change, and new challenges and opportunities will undoubtedly emerge. But our commitment to our members and our community will remain steadfast.

The story of First Choice Credit Union is, ultimately, the story of a community coming together and helping one another to achieve more. It is a story of generations supporting generations, of dreams made possible and of people making a difference in the lives of others.

Here’s to 60 years of First Choice Credit Union — and to the next chapter in our remarkable story.