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CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank Jamaica Employees End Industrial Action, Awaiting Resolution

 

On October 2, 2023, a significant number of CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank employees in Jamaica reportedly called in 'sick' following unsuccessful discussions with management regarding staff shortages. The President-General of the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU), Senator Kavan Gayle, revealed that workers from multiple branches and units claimed to be 'unwell,' raising concerns about potential employee dissatisfaction and staffing issues within the bank.

The bank, in response to this 'industrial action,' expressed disappointment and warned customers of potential inconveniences. The ongoing dispute resulted in a restriction of banking services, affecting not only the bank but also its customers, including tellers and customer service representatives.

CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank has actively worked to find a swift resolution to the ongoing issue. Due to the escalated nature of the situation, the bank had been forced to provide in-person banking services exclusively at its Liguanea branch, where limited services were offered that couldn't be conducted through online and mobile banking or at automated teller machines (ABMs).

President-General Kavan Gayle emphasized that employees were committed to returning to work once a clear and reasonable commitment was made to address their concerns, which included burnout, overwork, and a lack of work-life balance.

The full operations and banking services resumed at CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank on Tuesday 3rd October 2023 after bank employees agreed to end their protest. The workers are represented by the BITU, and Senator Kavan Gayle confirmed that the union and the bank's management are scheduled to meet at the Ministry of Labour on Tuesday afternoon to resolve the impasse.

We hope and anticipate that some meaningful discussions will take place at the Ministry of Labour. This action is an effort to create a balance between the workers' well-being and managing the experience of customer service and support."

The initial industrial action was taken by bank employees to press the management to address staff challenges and hazardous working conditions, which led to disappointment expressed by the bank and a restriction of banking services.

The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as discussions between the BITU, bank management, and the Ministry of Labour continue. CIBC, its employees, and their representatives will need to find common ground to ensure a healthy and productive work environment for all parties involved. The hope is that a resolution will be reached, bringing relief to both employees and customers affected by this dispute. 

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