By Olivia Rose from Turks & Caicos Weekly News

CIBC First Caribbean bank officially reopened its Grand Turk branch on November 29.

The bank was forced to temporarily close its doors to facilitate major repairs following hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. 
Its official reopening come as a major relief to many Islanders since Scotiabank pulled out of the island earlier this year.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony signified the end of construction and renovation and access to the facility for both patrons and employees.

During the event, Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson lauded the bank for its unwavering commitment to the Grand Turk community. 

She said the bank’s reopening demonstrated a “commitment to ensuring ease of access to financial services for residents and visitors throughout the Turks and Caicos, and of course in the nation’s capital.”

The premier’s sentiments were echoed by Deputy Governor Anya Williams who thanked the bank for reaffirming its dedication to the development of the island.

She said: “I believe CIBC FirstCaribbean’s investment in this branch should send a signal to other businesses, not only in Grand Turk but those outside of Grand Turk.

“The fact that you’ve seen fit to make this investment demonstrates your commitment, and I hope that others follow suit.”

She underscored the importance of stable financial institutions in advancing the community and by extension the territory.

She said: “CIBC FirstCaribbean bank has been a longstanding member of our community and is enshrined in our history.

“We thank them for their commitment to this island, for seeing fit to continue their investment in the branch here, for seeing fit to not use it as an excuse to downsize or exit the island, for looking to this island with optimism and not looking at the current state of affairs at the time but instead seeing the possibility of the future here in Grand Turk.”

CIBC FirstCaribbean’s country manager Larry Lawrence said the repairs and upgrades to the bank will ensure customers are better served.
He pointed out that the updated in-branch space will allow for better service and a more enjoyable client experience.

He said: “Today’s occasion celebrates the people of Grand Turk. CIBC FirstCaribbean’s mission is to serve the needs of the individuals, families and businesses in Grand Turk, and certainly, the wider Turks and Caicos community.

“Our new and improved branch will allow us to continue doing just that.”
He further revealed that after the storms the bank donated $6,000 to Grant Turk public schools.

At the re-opening ceremony, the bank presented cheques valued at $2,000 to HJ Robinson High School, Ona Glinton Primary School and Eliza Simons Primary School.

Lawrence gave assurance of CIBC FirstCaribbean’s continued commitment to the people of the TCI, and also applauded the contribution of employees in the bank’s success.

“Our success can only be achieved through incredible team work,” he said.
“I am honoured to work alongside some of the best in the business, and want to publicly acknowledge the dedication and commitment of our staff.”

For more on this story go to: http://tcweeklynews.com/first-caribbean-reopens-grand-turk-branch-p9257-127.htm