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It’s that time of year again when we’re encouraging all budding artists to take part in the Credit Union Art competition, that takes place across Ireland.
Limerick & District Credit Union is delighted to launch the 2025 Credit Union Art Competition and is calling on local artists of all ages to take part in one of Ireland’s longest running and most inclusive art initiatives. The competition invites people from all walks of life to express themselves through creativity, with this year’s theme asking them to reflect on “The Future is…”

This year’s theme encourages artists to look ahead with imagination, hope and curiosity. Participants might explore personal dreams and milestones, a better world for the next generation, or how change and progress might shape our lives and communities. Whether bold and futuristic or thoughtful and personal, the theme offers endless possibilities for creative interpretation.

Now in its 42nd year, the Credit Union Art Competition continues to support and promote creativity at every stage of life. From early learners to lifelong artists, the competition celebrates the power of art to connect, inspire and bring communities together.
Limerick & District Credit Union believes in supporting not only financial wellbeing, but also personal growth and connection through community involvement. The art competition is part of that wider mission, encouraging children and adults alike to think, create and share their ideas with others.

The competition is open to entrants across two categories:

• General Category
• Additional Needs Category

Each category is broken down into five age groups (based on age as of 31 December 2025):

• 7 years and under
• 8 – 10 years inclusive
• 11 – 13 years inclusive
• 14 – 17 years inclusive
• 18 years and over (Adult)

Entries will be judged on originality, creativity and how well the theme is explored.

All artwork must be hand-drawn or painted. Digital artwork will not be accepted. Local winners will go forward to regional and national stages of the competition.
Teachers, parents, community groups and local artists are all encouraged to get involved and help spread the word. Entry forms and competition details are available to download below or by contacting us directly via phone or email.

The closing date for completed entries is Saturday October 25th 2025.

Download Art Competition Entry Form

The Irish League of Credit Unions has released its annual Back to School survey results for 2025, highlighting the rising financial pressures facing families across the Republic of Ireland.

Key findings from this year’s report include:

• 1 in 3 parents (33%) are now going into debt to cover back-to-school costs
• The average debt per parent has risen to €376, compared to €368 last year.
• 35% of parents say they’ve had to deny their child at least one essential school item due to costs.
• The total cost of sending a child back to school now stands at €1,450 for primary school and €1,560 for secondary school

Commenting on the 2025 findings, David Malone, CEO, Irish League of Credit Unions said: “This year’s back to school survey findings are reflective of the broader pressures being felt across society associated with the increasing cost of living.

“While the fact that 1 in 3 are taking on debt is significant, the research also shows that more and more households are sacrificing to pay for back to school, particularly when compared to recent years”.

Read further information on this year’s report at the following link: https://www.creditunion.ie/news/latest-news/ilcu-back-to-school-research-shows-that-1-in-3-are/

#BackToSchool #CostofLiving #ForYou #CreditUnions #Ireland #EducationCosts

Dear Members, as the full roll-out of SEPA Instant approaches in October 2025, we have updated our PSD2 Section 76 Framework Contract which sets out how we provide SEPA (EFT) services to our membership.

The new contract will be displayed in all our offices and is available in hard copy on request.

Download: The European Union (Payment Services) Regulations 2018 (the “Regulations) Regulation 76 Information

Credit unions have been named Ireland’s most reputable organisation for the third consecutive year, topping the 2025 Ireland Reputation Index. Based on the views of over 5,000 people, the study ranks 100 of Ireland’s most prominent organisations on trust, respect,
admiration, and esteem.

With a score of 82.4, credit unions were one of just two organisations to achieve an ‘Excellent’ rating. They ranked first in three key reputation drivers—Citizenship, Conduct, and Workplace—and led when the public were asked who they would trust in a crisis,
welcome into their community, and recommend to others.

An Post and Boots Ireland followed in second and third place, scoring 80.8 and 79.5, respectively.

David Malone, CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions, said:

“Being voted as Ireland’s most reputable organisation for the third consecutive year is a true honour and a testament to the enduring trust and respect that members place in credit unions. This recognition highlights the critical role credit unions play in
supporting communities nationwide. As we continue to grow and evolve, our focus remains firmly on fostering trust, building meaningful connections and delivering value to those who rely on us every day.”

Recognised as the most genuine, fair, and community-focused organisation, credit unions continue to play a vital role in local life.

Members are encouraged to complete any online or EFT payments by Thursday morning, April 17th, to guarantee that funds are received on time.

With cases of Fraud on the rise and so many different scams circulating, please see our new updated Fraud Brochure outlining everything you need to know to keep you and your Current Account safe from Fraud.

Download our Fraud Awareness Brochure.

The SEPA Instant Payment Regulation will take effect in the EU on January 9, 2025.

From today, you can receive money instantly, and by October 9, 2025, you will be able to send instant payments.

Transactions will be processed within 10 seconds, 24/7, including weekends and bank holidays.

At Limerick & District Credit Union, we pride ourselves on providing first-class financial services to our community. This would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers.

We are currently seeking expressions of interest from members to join our Board of Directors or Board Oversight Committee. If you have skills that could benefit the Credit Union—particularly in IT or Legal areas—we would love to hear from you.

How to Apply:
Please contact us on 061-455831 or email c.long@lcu.ie before Tuesday, 31st December 2024. Be sure to include your contact details.

Together, we can continue to make a difference in our community!

Important Update: New Opening Hours for Dooradoyle Credit Union Office

We’re updating our office hours to serve you better! Starting Monday, December 2nd, our new opening hours will be:

• Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM*
• Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM*
• Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM*
• Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM*
• Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM*
• Saturday: Closed

*Please note: We are closed for lunch from 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM daily.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you during our updated hours!