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Belize Credit Unions History

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The Credit Union (CU) Movement in Belize was started in 1943 by a coalition of 32 individuals.  The pioneer of the movement was Father Marion Ganey, who believed that people have the responsibility to solve their economic and social problems.

 This coalition led to the birth of two CUs in the Toledo District: the first one, St. Peter Claver’s Credit Union Limited, was formed in Punta Gorda Town, and St. Joseph’s Credit Union Limited was formed in the Village of Barranco.  The CU idea soon became a sweeping movement throughout the whole country and between 1943 and 1950 they were being formed countrywide.  Some of these early credit unions included Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited (1944), St. Francis Xavier Credit Union (1945) and St. John's Parish Credit Union Limited (1946).
In 1949, an attempt was made to form a Credit Union League however this did not materialized. It was not until 15 June, 1956 the then Registrar of Co-operatives, Mr. Henry Usher, along with a few dedicated persons finally got the League started. The British Honduras Credit Union League became a reality and was registered under the Credit Union Laws of the Country.
On the 22nd June 1956, the first Meeting of the League was held and the following persons were elected:-

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mr. Donald Daly - President
Mr. Owen Tucker - Vice-President
Mrs. Jane Usher - Secretary/Treasurer
Mr. G. Smith - Director
Mr. H. McNab - Director

SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE

Mrs. L. Moir
Mr. Clive Welch (Deceased)
Mr. G. Cargill


In August 1956, the League was admitted into membership of the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). Through this organization, all League affiliates were offered Loan Protection and Life Saving Coverage by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society.
In 1970, the British Honduras Credit Union League along with other Leagues throughout the Caribbean came together to discuss the formation of a regional credit union organization. These discussions lead to the formation of the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Union (CCCU) in 1972. Through its affiliation with this organization the League is associated with the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU).
Presently, there are 13 credit unions in Belize of which 12 are members of the League which is now known as the Belize Credit Union League.