Business

Opening of CCU's 10th Belfast credit union branch brings 10 new jobs

CCU chief executive Ruth Clarke
CCU chief executive Ruth Clarke CCU chief executive Ruth Clarke

CLONARD Credit Union (CCU), one of the largest credit unions in Ireland, is to create 10 jobs with the opening of a new branch - its 10th - at Belfast's Kennedy Centre on Tuesday April 4.

Established in 1964 with 83 members and share/savings of £680, CCU has grown steadily over the years and currently has a 31,500 strong membership.

Its chief executive Ruth Clarke said: “We're delighted to be opening this new branch at the Kennedy Centre, which will serve people from all over the greater Belfast area, and it is equally great news that 10 new jobs are being created.

“The new Kennedy Centre branch will welcome our existing members and also new members.”

She added: “In the last financial year CCU issued loans totalling over £16 million to members in the local community.

“The opening of our 10th branch is a statement of our popularity and our continued growth among people who want to save, and access loans with a very low interest rate, and take advantage of our full range of banking services, including our own CCU debit card.

“We are always member-focused and embedded in the community we serve.

“CCU provides a full banking service to our membership. Our online services offer our members access to their Credit Union 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

“Our premises in Kennedy Centre, with six days a week opening hours, will ensure a personal service if our members prefer to conduct business face to face.

“Our mobile banking app connects you to your CCU savings, loans and current account. It allows you to transfer or withdraw money or make payments. You can also set up direct debit payments for TV licence, mortgage payments, car insurance etc.

“Indeed CCU is the first credit union in the north to offer this full banking service to our members.”

CCU remains a ‘not for profit’ financial co-operative owned and operated by its members, with its purpose being to help members with their day-to-day financial needs through regular savings and fair and affordable access to loans, together with a full range of banking services.