GPSCCU expanding to support loans, savings and ATMs in Berbice

GPSCCU Chief Executive Christopher Thompson

Construction is well under way on a new regional office of the Guyana Public Service Co-operative Credit Union Limited (GPSCCU) in New Amsterdam, as the institution moves to expand its physical presence and improve service delivery in the Berbice area.

Chief Executive Officer Christopher Thompson said the facility will serve as a regional and member services office for Regions Five and Six, reducing the need for members to travel to Georgetown to conduct business.

“We are constructing a brand new regional office, member office to cater for the members of both Region Five and Region Six. Historically for years members were required to make their way all the way down to Georgetown to conduct business at the Credit Union so we are bringing that business home here in the region,” Thompson said during a site visit.

“This building represents our commitment to Berbice and to ensuring that the region is not left behind in the country’s development.”

Thompson said the building is being developed with long-term growth in mind and will accommodate full member services operations, including loan processing and savings accounts, with space allocated for ATM machines once installed.

He added that labour, materials and services for the project are being sourced from within Berbice wherever possible, extending the economic benefits of the investment beyond the credit union’s membership.

“It is an investment in Berbice by the credit union for Berbicians,” Thompson said.

Once completed, the facility is expected to employ residents from the region, with an initial staff of about five and capacity to expand as operations and member demand grow. GPSCCU aims to complete construction and commission the building in the first quarter of next year, with services expected to begin before March.

“ I think Berbice deserves the attention it’s now getting. And we want to be able to say to our members, you could stay home and get the same quality of service that folks in Georgetown are accustomed to. And that saves time, saves money, saves a lot of frustration. And we know that once you’re dealing with your own folks here in Berbice, it’s a much pleasant experience,” Thompson said.

The credit union said the move is part of its strategy to meet the growing financial needs of its Berbice-based members.