MP backs drive tolift Credit Unions

Mr Durkan, who is Vice-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Credit Unions, said: “I’m supporting the #2020 vision for credit unions because they provide such a vital service to communities not only in Derry and throughout the North but also in Britain.

“Credit unions are a real lifeline for people who are struggling to make ends meet and find themselves in debt.

“They also have a very special place in the hearts of people in Derry. John Hume was one of half a dozen people who set up Northern Ireland’s first one here in 1960, and since then Derry’s three credit unions have gone from strength to strength.

“When people have found it harder to get loans from banks, credit unions have played such a vital role in helping them to get through lean times.

“In addition, money in credit unions also stays locally and helps the local economy.”