Saba News News and Information from Saba Island, Dutch Caribbean
The Public Entity recognizes that the continued closure is significant for residents and businesses who depend on in-person banking services. RBC maintains responsibility for branch operations and customer communication, but we are actively seeking updates and raising the issue with supervisory and governmental authorities. Based on the latest information available, a reopening date has not yet been confirmed.
The public entity has requested that RBC provide the community with an official update regarding the status of the branch. Should RBC issue a statement, it will be reshared through Public Entity Saba’s official communication channels.
In the meantime, customers requiring banking assistance are encouraged to make use of RBC’s available digital banking services or contact RBC Customer Service for support and information on alternative banking options.
PES
The price of paradise?
The only bank on Saba has closed. The post office is closed. Satel has no (e)SIMs available for customers.
The consequences are becoming very real. Businesses cannot deposit their cash, making it difficult to pay suppliers, bills, and credit card balances. With the post office closed, mail and packages are piling up with no one to process, accept, or release them. And if the SIM shortage continues, some residents may soon be unable to make phone calls at all.
Living on a small island comes with unique challenges, but access to basic services like banking, postal services, and telecommunications shouldn’t become a luxury. Paradise is only paradise when essential infrastructure continues to function.
When a license was granted to RBC to operate on Saba, this came with certain fiduciary responsibilities. I can say that RBC has neglected where responsibility to its clients and the community of Saba is concern. I am calling on the central bank of St.Marteen and Curacao to intervene and hold RBC responsible.
The RBC bank should pay a hefty penalty for this negligence and the prosecutor in the interest of the public welfare should start an investigation into this matter.
These are serious short comings that should be reported to the ombudsman and the The Netherlandse Central Bank.
I agree with you 100 percent.