Some Barbadians were so angry about the name of the Barbados National Bank (BNB) being changed to Republic Bank Barbados in a rebranding exercise that they pulled their accounts.
It was this same emotion that forced many to post their comments on the issue this past week on THE NATION’s website and Facebook page.
Managing director Derwin Howell said a small number of Barbadians closed their accounts before the rebranding and after the signs went up recently. He said the number of account closures did not represent a threat to the bank.
This is how readers responded:
Kenneth King: “The BLP [Barbados Labour Party] was wrong in allowing the ‘People Of Barbados’ Bank’ to be sold without first taking this action to the people. I really hope someday someone pays for this insult to us. Would Trinidad and Tobago sell their national bank if it was the other way around? I don’t think so. This bank was a part of our national prestige and sold from under our feet. If the bank had failed it was because of the lack of marketing to make it more competitive and to provide better services to its customers.”
Olutoye Walrond: “Those persons who ‘don’t want their money in no Trini bank’ will most likely take it to a Canadian, British or American bank. It’s the same old small-mindedness and island insularity that destroyed the West Indies federation and is now threatening CARICOM.”
Rodney Fergusson: “I’m curious as to how much of this country can still be considered Barbados. For that matter, how much longer before we change the name from Barbados? Come on, politicians, enough with the crap. Bajans aren’t sellouts.”
Randy Bridgeman: “If former BNB customers are dissatisfied with the current Republic set-up, why not switch accounts to one of the credit unions? Or will our neighbour buy out credit unions too in the near future? Just a thought.”
Bajans were also glued to their screens on Saturday morning when Serena Williams secured her fifth Wimbledon title win. Many were overjoyed.
Erma Bryan: “Serena, I know it took a lot of hard work, both mentally and physically, to come back from your illness. You were so blessed that you were spared. There are not many that are around to talk about their journey, much less win a championship. Congratulations and much love to you! Good luck to you and Venus in the doubles.”
Bash Ola Agbaje: “And just when I thought she was out of the game! Bam! And another championship for the champion! Congrats, Serena!”
Conchita Moseley: “Queen of the centre court at Wimbledon in 2012. How many hearts would have been broken had you lost? I am not sure I could have taken the pressure. Serena, I love you! Girl, your tennis did the talking.”
Al Wright: “Let the world know that Wimbledon is your turf, girl.”
Heather Marsh: “Congrats to Serena.”