When Tommy and Bernadette Weir got married in 1968, Fr Crowley a founding member of Drogheda Credit Union officiated at the ceremony and, later in the day, he invited Tommy to become a volunteer. It was the second lifelong commitment Tommy made that day!
Roll on 56 years and this week has been one of sharing cherished memories and fond farewells for Tommy Weir, as he retires from his volunteer duties as Chapter Delegate for Drogheda Credit Union.
A surprise retirement party was held for Tommy, accompanied by his wife Bernadette, in Slane Credit Union and friends and colleagues from Credit Unions all over Ireland joined in the celebrations.
Special guests in attendance on the night were President of the Irish League of Credit Unions, Mr. Martin Busch, CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions Foundation, Mr. Alan Moore and Chairperson of Chapter Six, Mr. Bernard Clarke.
The night was a very fitting tribute to the man who functioned as a volunteer to the Credit Union movement for the last 56 years. It was wonderful to listen to the contributions given by everyone on the night, each praising the dedication, commitment, and hard work that Tommy has given over a lifetime.
Throughout his time as a volunteer Tommy was inspired by the philosophy and ethos of the Credit Union movement, he believed in helping to create a sustainable community financial forum that was not bound by social, religious, or political barriers.
Tommy was always generous with his time, his willingness to help others and to find solutions to problems that have arisen. He always led by example and did not shy away from tough decisions when required.
Tommy Weir at his retirement party with Drogheda Credit Union Board members Paul Brassil and Aidan Gibney.
Over the years he became renowned throughout the network of Credit Unions across Ireland for his knowledge and love of all things Credit Union. He has been an integral part of Drogheda Credit Union since his appointment to the Board of Directors in 1968, a year after its formation.
During that time, he made a huge contribution serving on different committees and as a member of the Board of Directors. He was President from 2009 -2013 and guided Drogheda Credit Union through a challenging time of change, arising from the banking collapse.
Tommy also served as a member of the Supervisory Committee and as a member of the Board of Directors on the Irish League of Credit Unions and as a Director and Chairperson of the Irish League of Credit Union Foundation. Tommy retired this week as the Chapter delegate for Drogheda Credit Union and will be deeply missed by all his colleagues and volunteers in the Credit Union.
Tommy Weir is a champion of the Credit Union, during his time with the Irish League of Credit Unions Foundation, Tommy helped to set up Credit Unions in Gambia, Albania, Russia, and Ethiopia. At a local level, his focus was to educate the youth on the Credit Union, he organised the Credit Union quizzes and the art competitions for many years.
“On behalf of all our members, volunteers and staff we would like to thank Tommy for all his years of service” said a spokesperson for Drogheda Credit Union.
“His commitment and passion for the Credit Union will leave a legacy behind, he has paved the way for change within the Credit Union.We do hope that he will enjoy his retirement spending time focusing on his other loves, his family, his golf, and GAA club. Go raibh mile maith agat Tommy.”
