CIBC Firstcaribbean Bank launches new insurance agency

CIBC Firstcaribbean Bank launches new insurance agency

Hurricane Maria which devastated Dominica last year was a stark reminder of the need to have adequate insurance coverage.

This point was underscored by CIBC FirstCaribbean's Country Head Stephen Lander at the launch of the bank's motor and property insurance offering in association with Massy United Insurance.

"We often hear the expression that insurance protection is not a luxury but a necessity, and in many respects our experiences with Hurricane Maria certainly validated this view," Lander told those gathered at Fort Young Hotel recently for the launch of the CIBC FirstCaribbean Insurance Agency.

"We experienced firsthand the difference that adequate protection can make, having emerged from the frontlines of a major disaster. CIBC FirstCaribbean prides itself in being a life financial partner with the ability to address the full suite of its customers' financial needs in one conversation, under one roof. Insurance protection is one such need, and we are happy to announce this new suite of services in Dominica."

The regional bank's Managing Director of Retail and Business Banking, Mark St. Hill, outlined how the bank has been repositioning itself to meet the varied needs of its clients. He noted that this included continuous staff training, regular upgrades to the bank's internet and mobile banking services and now adding the ability for clients to meet all their insurance needs right where they bank.

"I believe that there is no better time to launch this insurance offering as now. I also believe that there is no better time for our clients to speak to one of our insurance specialists than now," St. Hill said.

Paul Inniss, the bank's Director of Insurance explained that the insurance offering includes Home & Auto Insurance. Natasha Pettier, Head of Underwriting and Insurance Operations, at Massy United Insurance also spoke of her company's solid commitment to Dominica as demonstrated in their response after hurricane Maria struck paying over 50 per cent of claims within ninety days.