World Conference Hits Record-Breaking Attendance

The World Council of Credit Unions' 2006 World Conference in Dublin, Ireland, has attracted more than 1,700 participants—the highest number to ever register for the conference. As a result, the organizers have had to close registration to any additional attendees, due to the capacity limits at the conference venue.

"Conference attendees are coming from more than 40 countries," said Dave Grace, Senior Manager, Association Services, WOCCU. "The opportunity to learn from and share ideas with credit union representatives from all over the world is invaluable."

The conference, scheduled for July 26-30, features several renowned keynote speakers including Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, the Prime Minister of Ireland; Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland and human rights advocate; Dan Mica, CEO of Credit Union National Association (CUNA); and economist and Irish TV personality, David McWilliams. The conference also features 20 educational breakout sessions and visits to Irish credit unions.

World Council of Credit Unions is the global trade association and development agency for credit unions. World Council promotes the sustainable development of credit unions and other financial cooperatives around the world to empower people through access to high quality and affordable financial services. World Council advocates on behalf of the global credit union system before international organizations and works with national governments to improve legislation and regulation. Its technical assistance programs introduce new tools and technologies to strengthen credit unions' financial performance and increase their outreach.

World Council has implemented more than 290 technical assistance programs in 71 countries. Worldwide, 51,000 credit unions in 100 countries serve 196 million people. Learn more about World Council's impact around the world at www.woccu.org.