1st National Bank employees staged a protest outside the bank on Bridge Street yesterday, demanding money they say that is owed to them.
The protest comes on the heels of an alleged ‘sick out’ that took place last week.
The bank, in a post on social media yesterday, informed customers that its services were limited and apologised “for the inconvenience”.
“Today, Tuesday 8th October 2024, 1st National Bank will be operating from our JQ Mall, Bridge Street, Vieux Fort and Choc Locations Offering Teller Services and Wire Transfers. Our Bureau de Charge at GFL Charles Airport is also open,” the bank said, adding that its ATMs, online and MoBanking services were available.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding. We are always Here for YOU,” the bank added.
But “here for who?” employees chanted collectively on Tuesday, holding aloft placards saying just that and calling on the bank’s management to “pay us what you owe!”
One individual who spoke on the condition of anonymity told a local publication (St Lucia Times) that “after RBC was acquired, the bank agreed in principle to pay all staff across the board for the additional workload. However as of recent, they decided that they are just not paying it, so we are outside peacefully protesting and trying to arrive at some compromise.”
“In the meantime, we will continue to protest for what the bank is owing us and to get the message across and to get it clear,” a staff member said.
The inconveniences customers experienced yesterday began last week when several employees called in sick.
The VOICE understands that employees are asking for the full amount of what was promised to them to be paid not a partial amount.
Last week’s sickout exploded yesterday into full-blown industrial action with employees coming out with placards and chanting their frustrations.
Employees lined the streets outside the bank adamant that this time around not only would management heed their cries to pay them what was promised to them, but that their working conditions improve and salaries increase.