First employee Brigid O’Donnell reflects on three decades at Rosses Credit Union

Rosses Credit Union’s first employee, Brigid O’Donnell, has reflected on almost three decades of service. 

The Rosses Credit Union was first opened in 1995 and has served the local community for 30 years. Brigid was the first to be employed and subsequently served as the manager,  then came Joan Sweeney and Mary Boyle, who formed the original trio.

The three reunited to reminisce about experiences and the people they met over the years, having now entered retirement. Joan started around 2003, and Mary joined shortly after.

“We met up just the three of us, to mark the occasion of 30 years,” Brigid tells DonegalLive. “I was the first employee and then the manager until I left. Altogether, I was there 27 ½ years.

“It was lovely to have it up and running, and I loved working there. It was especially nice to get to talk to the people who came in. You made a great connection with the members. It's simple things in life, but people need it.”

In the beginning, it was voluntary work for at least two years. Then the option became available to go through a Fás scheme.  “It was done for the community. I loved having the craic with people, and you could see how it was helping everyone,” Brigid adds. 

After nearly three decades, it has undergone significant changes, particularly with the rise of technology. “When we started, it was all paperwork; it was a lot of work. You could appreciate what you had to do and understand it better. 

The Rosses Credit Union Limited was established in 1994 at a public meeting in the local parochial hall in Dungloe. On June 9, 1995, an office was opened on Carnmore Road. Then, in 1997, they moved to an office on the main street and the following year purchased a computer system from ICE.

“We didn’t get computers until 1998, about three years after we started. Then, a lot of regulations began to come in, which made it more difficult. 

Joan was the first to retire seven years ago, followed by Brigid, who is almost three years and was the last Mary in March of this year. The last original manager, John Bosco, is retiring later this month. 

“We have now joined the pensioners' list, marking a new chapter in our lives filled with nostalgia and anticipation for what lies ahead,” Brigid concludes. 

New management has taken over now, and currently, there are six staff members employed at Rosses Credit Union, including the manager. The Rosses Credit Union’s Common Bond covers: Arranmore Island; Rutland Island; Dungloe;  Maghery; Lettermacaward; Glenleehan; Gaffy; Fintown; Doochary; Crovey; and Annagry. 

The Rosses Credit Union is a local, not-for-profit financial institution that is also non-sectarian and non-political. To the present day, it continues to be governed by members and a voluntary Board of Directors.