Some Common Cents Advice

Paul with FE Services’ Laura and Gavan FRI28JUNE24

he three notes Paul Neale hits again and again in our conversation this afternoon are equality, jargon-free and independent.

They’re the three ingredients the man believes are crucial when it comes to helping people figure out to how best to feather their nests.

Along with figuring out how to actually get yourself a nest in the first place.

Having entered into the wild and wacky world of life insurance, pensions and investments as a wide-eyed 23-year-old back in 1987, young Neale has learnt a lot over the ensuing decades about what people want and, more importantly, what they actually need when it comes to sorting out their finances. No matter what their circumstances.

A major turning point came in the early 2000s, when Paul recognised the prejudices against the gay community when it came to the likes of mortgages and pensions, and soon he was working with HIV Ireland to level that playing field. “This is where equality really came into play for me,” he says. “The idea that anyone in our society would be unfairly treated for just being who they are, that was something I knew we had to break down…”

It’s a philosophy that would give Financial Equality Service its name.

“We are fully inclusive, absolutely,” continues Paul. “All that matters is the individual, and where they are now financially in their lives, and where they would like to be. Whether that’s getting a mortgage, or sorting out their pension, whatever.

“We’ll find a way forward that works for them.”

And that includes those facing Auto Enrolment, the Irish Government’s 2024 retirement savings system bill that’s due to come into effect on January 1st, 2025. In the hope of sorting out Ireland’s pension mess over the coming four decades.

“People’s circumstances can change, and so can the financial landscape,” nods Paul. “And we’re here to make sure those changes work best for each individual. It’s always good to regularly check how your finances are doing, and make sure they’re still working for you. That’s why our first consultation is always free…”

As we head outside to get some shots at the Southern Cross entrance to Paul’s Bray HQ, one last line on the man’s work ethic.

“Keep it simple, keep it open and honest, and it’s a win-win for everyone…”

You can find out more about Financial Equality Services here, check out their mortgages here, pensions here, income protection here and investments here. You can also follow on Instagram here and LinkedIn here, or get in touch directly on email here or by phone here. And for July 2024, the gang have a groovy Instagram competition here.