Kilrush Credit Union Celebrates Seven Award Nominations

Kilrush Credit Union is proud to announce that it has received seven nominations in the 2026 All-Ireland Credit Union Awards, recognising outstanding achievements across leadership, member service, lending, community impact, sustainability and employee development.

The nominations reflect the dedication of staff, volunteers and community partners who work every day to make a positive difference for members and communities throughout West Clare.

Among the individual nominations is Caitlin Casey, who has been shortlisted for the Credit Union Rising Star Award in recognition of the exceptional contribution she has made since joining Kilrush Credit Union. Caitlin has quickly become an integral member of the team, demonstrating a strong commitment to members, continuous learning and collaboration across the organisation.

Fiona Walsh, CEO of Kilrush Credit Union, has been nominated for the prestigious Distinguished Leader Award. Fiona's leadership journey, from joining the credit union on a short-term contract to becoming CEO, has been marked by strategic vision, innovation, staff development and an unwavering commitment to members and the community.

The credit union is also delighted to see Anne Marie Crowley nominated for Outstanding Member Services Officer, recognising her commitment to delivering exceptional service and support to members.

A special acknowledgement is reserved for John Joe Ryan, who has been nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award. This nomination celebrates his longstanding contribution to the credit union movement and the positive impact he has made over many years.

The organisation's community initiatives have also received national recognition. The Knook Books literacy project has been shortlisted in the Social Dividend Initiative (Social Impact) category. The project, which provided personalised books to primary school children throughout West Clare, promoted literacy, confidence and inclusion while strengthening connections between schools, families and local communities.

Meanwhile, the credit union's Rewilding for Wellness Project has been nominated in the Social Dividend Initiative (Sustainability) category. The initiative reflects Kilrush Credit Union's commitment to environmental sustainability and community wellbeing through projects that create lasting benefits for future generations.

Completing the list of nominations is the Kilrush Credit Union Loans Team, who have been shortlisted for Loan Team of the Year. The nomination recognises the team's dedication to helping members achieve their goals through responsible lending, excellent service and a member-first approach.

Commenting on the nominations, CEO Fiona Walsh said:

"We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition. These nominations reflect the hard work, professionalism and commitment of our staff, volunteers, Board and community partners. Most importantly, they reflect the trust our members place in us every day. We are proud to represent West Clare on a national stage and grateful to everyone who has contributed to these achievements."

While the nominations are a wonderful honour, Kilrush Credit Union believes the real success lies in the difference these initiatives make to members and communities throughout West Clare. The credit union looks forward to celebrating alongside colleagues from across the movement at the All-Ireland Credit Union Awards later this year.