National Supervisors Forum (NSF) incorporating Board Oversight Committees (ROI) & Supervisory Committees (NI)

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Statement on behalf of the National Supervisors Forum – May 2026

The National Supervisors Forum warmly welcomes and congratulates the credit union sector on being ranked as Ireland’s most reputable organisation for the fourth consecutive year in the annual RepTrak study. This outstanding achievement is a source of immense pride for everyone involved in the movement and is a clear reflection of the trust, confidence and loyalty that communities across Ireland continue to place in their local credit unions.

To achieve this recognition once is significant; to maintain this position for four years in succession is exceptional. It speaks to the enduring values of the credit union movement — member-first service, integrity, community commitment and financial inclusion — values that remain at the heart of everything credit unions do.

As supervisors and members of Board Oversight Committees, we recognise that this success has not happened by chance. It is the result of the dedication and commitment of volunteers, boards, management teams, staff and members throughout the sector, all working collectively to uphold the strong reputation of credit unions across the country.

We also wish to acknowledge the contribution of the representative bodies whose leadership, advocacy and support continue to strengthen and advance the movement. Equally, we recognise the important role played by the Central Bank and the Department of Finance through their ongoing engagement and support in helping to shape a sustainable and progressive future for the sector.

This recognition belongs to the wider credit union community and reflects a collective effort across all parts of the movement. The National Supervisor Forum looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure credit unions remain trusted, resilient and relevant for generations to come.

We extend our sincere congratulations to everyone involved in this well-deserved achievement.

Kind Regards
John Higgins, NSF Chairperson

John Higgins appointed Chairperson of the National Supervisors Forum (NSF)

At a recent Executive Committee meeting of the National Supervisors Forum (NSF), it was unanimously agreed that John Higgins, Vice Chairperson, would be elected as Chairperson
following Mr. Joe Tobin’s stepping down, due to being elected to the Irish League of Credit Unions Supervisors committee.

Mr. Higgins brings a wealth of experience to the role from both his tenure as Chair of Enniscorthy Credit Union Board Oversight Committee and his dedicated service on the NSF
Executive Committee. A passionate advocate for governance excellence in the credit union and corporate sectors, John has been instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of the
NSF.

Accepting the role, John remarked: “I’m grateful for the trust that has been placed in me as the new NSF Chairperson. I recognise the significant shoes I have to fill following Joe’s direction and leadership. I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow Executive Committee members on our shared goals for the NSF and the Credit Union Sector.“

The NSF Executive Committee extends heartfelt thanks to Mr. Tobin, whose leadership has helped enhance and strengthen governance practice across the Credit Union Movement.

Under Mr. Higgins’s stewardship, the National Supervisors Forum will remain committed to:

  • Enhancing governance, in all its dimensions, across Board Oversight and Supervisory Committees.
  • Delivering specialist Training Workshops and Events.
  • Supporting Credit Unions across the island of Ireland to deliver robust and sustained community-based financial services.
  • Building meaningful liaisons and networks with the Regulatory and Representative Bodies throughout the sectors.
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