It started out as a rumour, but was later realised to be factual! Shocking news reaching RTC News that one of the oldest banking institutions will be closing two of its prime offices in Leeward and in the Capital Grand Turk.
The news was not welcoming, particularly for residents in the capital! Since the release, Premier Robinson has issued a statement to RTC News:
‘Today, the Deputy Premier, Hon Sean Astwood and I met with the Managing Director and the Regional Compliance Head to discuss the Bank’s upcoming initiatives. We were informed that the Bank intends to consolidate its operations into one Center which is located on Leeward Highway. This meant that the Branches at Grand Turk and in Grace Bay will be consolidated to this location. On receiving this News, I contacted the Leader of the Opposition who was given the opportunity to also speak with the Bank’s Representatives at the same time.
We were informed that this is a continuation of what has already happened in the Bahamas and now Cayman Islands, BVI and the Turks and Caicos Islands and was the Bank’s direction to direct its customers more to use the heavily invested technological systems while allowing staff to focus on strategic goals.
We outlined our concerns to the Bank for its staff, its customers in light of the recovery and challenging internet services, the message being sent to the general public of these Islands and the Nation’s Capital specifically. We also requested of the Bank that its representatives meet with the public of Grand Turk and allow them to share its concerns and to advise on how the services will continue. This request has gone forward for consideration.
We do understand that this is a corporate decision and are grateful that the dates were staggered. We are aware of the staff challenges and the fact that the decision has been made from the highest office in Canada. However we believe that this is a rather unfortunate decision that could not come at a worse time.
I am aware that the Bank would have also today met with the Acting Governor and the Labour Commissioner today. We will continue our discussions with the Bank and critical stakeholders on this issue to see how we are able to avert this, failing which, how we might assist with minimizing the impact of this closure on the communities in Grand Turk.’
An unofficial correspondence was sent to RTC News late Thursday evening of the banks decision by a resident of Grand Turk.
