Time to stop grumbling about poor bank service

In February, I wrote to the managing director of this bank advising that the closure of the Chaguaramas branch in March would have brought undue hardship to the many clients who use its services. To date, I am yet to receive a response.

However, in speaking with several bank representatives, I was assured by one that my concerns would be addressed as the bank would be increasing the number of tellers operating out of the West Mall branch to accommodate the anticipated influx of clients from the western peninsula.

The Chaguaramas branch accommodated clients from the coast guard, regiment and many businesses in the West.

However, on every occasion, regardless of the time of day that I have visited the West Mall branch, there has been a long line of customers waiting to be attended to by four-five tellers.

A simple transaction there could take two hours plus, depending on the type of business being conducted by people ahead of you.

Speaking to a supervisor was also an exercise in futility, particularly when I enquired if every client had to wait in the same line, whether it was to cash a cheque or to conduct a longer transaction. The supervisor said everyone had to wait in the same line to be served as the bank only had four tellers. She said the bank is encouraging its clients to use the online and drop-box services that were being provided.

I informed her the online service was also limited.

I also found out the bank’s services for senior citizens at the West Mall branch is only offered on certain days.

So a senior citizen is limited to particular days. On all other days, they too must join the long line.

We Trinidadians and Tobagonians are known for our very high levels of tolerance and patience, as well as our capacity to accept less than adequate service.

But there must be a limit when it reaches to the bank where people go to conduct business that is of mutual benefit to both parties.

It is time to draw a line and to say enough is enough. I say this against the backdrop of rate increases for bank services. I think it is time for all customers to stop the grumbling and collectively send a message that we deserve better.

There is an old-people saying, “It is hard to take licks when it is your own whip beating you.”

JOAN DE CHABERT Carenage