High on the agenda for the recently appointed Financial Services Ombudsman – Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, Ms Suzanne Roach, is increasing the visibility of the Office of the Financial Services Ombudsman throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Ms Roach noted this during her first courtesy visit to Chief Secretary Orville London, at the Administrative Complex, today – Wednesday, 11th August 2010.
The Ombudsman is in Tobago to visit all banks and insurance companies on the island, as well as meet with partnering NGOs, youth groups and other public and private institutions as part of her education drive.
Ms Roach noted her commitment to educating citizens of Trinidad and Tobago on the services that they can access from her Office through the use of the mass media, and other avenues. She said that also of great importance is her dedication to informing citizens who transact business with commercial banks and insurance companies of their rights and responsibilities.
Ombudsman Roach said: “We mediate for individuals who have complaints against banks and insurance companies….We mediate when customers are dissatisfied with the level of service, issues – whatever issues they have and how the financial institution has treated them”.
With the customer’s consent, the Office investigates the complaint and works out an amicable solution through consultation with both parties.
She also highlighted the importance of financial literacy and her Office’s continued partnership with the THA’s Division of Finance and Enterprise Development to improve this skill in Tobagonians.
Chief Secretary London welcomed the Ombudsman to Tobago and commended her on her initiative to improve Tobagonians’ awareness of the mediation services available through the Financial Services Ombudsman’s Office.
The Office of the Financial Services Ombudsman can be contacted via website – www.ofso.org.tt, or telephone number 625-4835. The Tobago Office operates out of the Office of the Division of Finance and Enterprise Development, Glen Road. All services are free.