Jobs on the line as BITU, Scotia meet

Any decision by the Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS) to go through with a proposal that would see three sections of its Jamaican operations being moved to the Dominican Republic can be viewed as "chasing corporate greed", one trade unionist has suggested.

Scotiabank announced on September 18 a proposal to consolidate its Business Service Centre, its Lending Service Unit and a unit within its Processing Support Centre in Jamaica into the Caribbean Central hub in the Dominican Republic.

The Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU), which represents all employees across the potentially affected sections of the business, has since contended that the move could cost 100 jobs.

Prior to the announcement, the bank had written to the union to inform it of the proposed consolidation while seeking to engage in consultation.

In a letter dated September 4 addressed to BITU president Senator Kavan Gayle, it explained that the proposed changes were centred on bringing best practices, standards and increased efficiency to the bank's processing and support services, while reducing overall structural costs, resulting in the expansion of its Shared Services and Collections hubs across the Caribbean.

The proposals are to be discussed in detail at a meeting between the union and the management of BNS this morning.

CAUSING THEM TO LOSE FOCUS

However, speaking with The Gleaner ahead of today's meeting, Gayle underscored that BNS reported net income of J$11.2 billion for the nine months ended July 2018, and, as such, should clearly outline the efficiency target they're trying to achieve.

"We're raising objection to their plans, and should it go through, we're citing it as chasing corporate greed," Gayle declared.

"Last year, they had sent packing another 100 group of workers to both the Dominican Republic and Trinidad, and they're feeling the effects of it today because the destinations to which they have sent those jobs have not been able to efficiently serve the business. We have said to them that they have not learned from their mistake. So, their intent to chase greed is causing them to lose focus."

Gayle further argued that BNS, as a multinational corporation, is going against the plans of the country by unnecessarily creating more unemployment.

"Consultation must allow for practical feedback, recommendation and alternative options from the union and its group of workers to protect their jobs," he stressed.

Meanwhile, public and corporate affairs manager at Scotiabank, Hope McMillan Canaan, released a statement yesterday saying that the bank needs to remain competitive to serve its clients more effectively and efficiently.

"Our focus throughout this transition will be centred on supporting our employees and preserving employment, where possible. Should there be any impact on staff following the consultative process, Scotiabank will treat impacted employees fairly and with respect, as is customary," she said.

"Meetings and discussions between Scotiabank and the BITU are ongoing, and we remain committed to the process."

syranno.baines@gleanerjm.com