Tobago Lifeguards Face Delay in Salaries Due to Banking Transition Issues

Tobago’s lifeguards were caught off guard this week as delays in salary payments disrupted their financial stability. The delay stemmed from technical issues with First Citizens Bank’s transition to a new online banking platform.

The Division of Tourism, Antiquities, and Creative Industries, which oversees lifeguard employment, revealed the root cause was a glitch during the bank’s shift from its current system to a revamped Business Online Banking platform. This transition hindered the processing of payroll information, affecting lifeguards and other public service employees dependent on timely salary disbursement.

“It’s been a stressful situation,” shared an affected lifeguard, alluding to the widespread anxiety among colleagues accustomed to timely payments. Such events have ignited discussions about the dependability of regional banking systems, especially for public servants who rely heavily on regular salary schedules.

Swift action was taken as the Division, in collaboration with the Division of Finance, Trade and the Economy, engaged with First Citizens Bank to quicken the resolution process. By Wednesday, June 10, all backlogged payments were on track for release, alleviating concerns. Employees banking within First Citizens were assured access to their funds by Thursday, with others to follow by Friday.

The Division publicly extended their regret for the inconvenience caused and committed to ensuring transparency throughout the ordeal. This incident has underscored the critical importance of robust and reliable payment systems to maintain employee morale and trust.

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