27 May 2024
Celebrating 30 years of ANSAC: 10 question interview with our longest standing volunteer Kieran McMahon
1. What’s your current role within ANSAC? I am a member of the Board of Directors and The Chair of The Strategic Committee.
2. Kieran you’ve been an integral part of the ANSAC story so far but what drew you to sign up for the initial study group back in March 1993? I was a volunteer in my local credit union. I was on the Credit Committee. As I was also a member of PDFORRA. I was approached and asked by the then Naval Regional Secretary, (Pat Phelan), would I like to go on the PDFORRA Study Group regarding forming a Credit Union for its members.
3. Did you think it was going to be the success that it is way back then? While on the study group it was very evident that all involved were very focused on the setting up of a credit union, just as I was. From day one we knew we would succeed.
4. Were there any barriers/obstacles/naysayers when you were trying to get it off the ground? During the study group each participant had to attend the training on our own time. We all used up our annual leave so that was a barrier. And yes, there were naysayers, some people were very sceptical that we would not succeed.
5. Were you involved in the hiring of any of the first staff members? After the study group was officially allowed to set up a credit union, I was elected to the first Board of Directors. Employment of staff and interviews were done by the executive committee and their findings were supported and approved by the board.
6. What would you say have been the highlights of your journey with ANSAC? There are a few, the first one was that we were allowed to establish a credit union. The second was our launch. Third was getting our own premises in Amiens Street. Forth was celebrating our 25th anniversary and being praised for our success by the then President of ILCU. Then firth is now reaching our 30th anniversary and getting our new premises at 18 Drumcondra Upper.
7. And on the flip side, have there been any setbacks that stand out in your memory? I say no as with the Board of Directors, Board Oversight Committee, Management and Staff we all strived for ANSAC to deliver the services for our members.
8. How do you feel about where ANSAC is today? Extremely proud and satisfied with our achievements to date. Meeting the changes and delivering for our members.
9. Have you any words of wisdom for anyone thinking of volunteering? Yes, it is very rewarding, and I would encourage people to do it.
10. And lastly, would you do it all over again? Without a doubt as I am a strong believer in the Credit Union movement and what it stands for.
