Public Service Credit Union to begin construction of Berbice branch

The Guyana Public Service Co-operative Credit Union has turned the sod for the construction of a new branch in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

During the sod turning ceremony on Wednesday, Chairman of the Credit Union Trevor Benn explained that the move will see thousands of the Credit Union’s members in Regions Five and Six no longer having to travel to Georgetown to access the Credit Union as all of the services offered at the main office will be decentralized.

“We are here today to turn the sod for a building which will make it permanent so you don’t have to leave New Amsterdam or Berbice at all, so whether you are in Region Five or Region Six, there is a place close by where you can transact your business,” Mr. Benn said.

He explained that the Credit Union has already appointed Regional Representatives in all of the Regions where there is no office. He said the move is to ease the burden from members who sometimes have to travel to Georgetown for services and small loans.

“We understand that sometimes there are personality issues where people don’t want to deal with the rep for whatever reason but we are encouraging you to utilize the rep in your region to avoid having to come to town. Once your rep has your information, she channels it to the office in Georgetown and it is processed within a couple of days and the transaction is completed—so you don’t need to unless you must come to Georgetown,” Benn urged out of town Credit Union members.

Benn said the Credit Union is aiming to match the services of other Credit Unions across the Caribbean, touting the introduction of Visa Cards and ATM Machines for Credit Union members.

He also explained that the New Amsterdam Branch is one of two buildings the Credit Union is hoping to construct over the next two years, as there are also plans for the construction of a multi complex facility.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of New Amsterdam, Wainwright McCintosh, commended the Credit Union for the work it has been doing.

“I am beginning to see the vision your vision of sustainability as a Credit Union, so I wish to congratulate not only the leadership but the general membership of the Credit Union,” the Mayor stated.

His sentiments were echoed by the Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Mary Samaroo, who also urged public servants in the Region who are not yet members to join the Public Service Credit Union.