Nassau, Bahamas – As the situation slowly begins to improve on the Abaco islands, the member banks of the Clearing Banks Association of The Bahamas (CBA) are working diligently to restore banking services to clients and communities impacted by Hurricane Dorian.
“Right now, banks are in the process of restoring ATM services as a first step in a return to normal services for local residents,” said LaSonya Missick, President, CBA and Managing Director, RBC Bahamas. “In the coming weeks, member banks hope to have ATM options available for clients. Clients should contact their respective banks for information about the specific services they have available,” she continued.
Branch locations in Marsh Harbour were heavily damaged by the Hurricane and in some cases, branches were completely destroyed. Member banks shared they are currently considering options to establish an interim presence while work begins on reconstruction. Given the extent of the damage, many banks cannot offer a firm timeline on when traditional branches expect to reopen.
“One option for many clients is that banks offer a range of digital and mobile banking services. Personal banking and business banking clients who have access to internet services can make use of their banks’ digital services to manage most day-to-day banking transactions,” said Missick. “We know clients will need services like wire transactions and payroll services, and some will be seeking financing. The good news is, many of these services are available electronically or over the phone. Clients are not limited by not having a physical presence on the island.”
The members of the Clearing Banks’ Association know well that banking services are at the heart of a community and its economy. “While we are competitors as individual banks, we are united in our efforts to restore services to our clients and our focus on supporting the rebuilding of communities across Abaco,” said Missick. “We understand the need to restore what was lost as quickly as we can find feasible solutions.”
The Clearing Banks’ Association of The Bahamas fosters good relations between Member Banks and their clients to promote good banking practices throughout the Bahamas by setting standards of disclosure and conduct that Banks agree to observe when dealing with clients, competitors and employees.
