The Bankers Association of T&T (BATT) has described talks held last Friday with key stakeholders in Tobago as "productive and fruitful"
In a media release yesterday, BATT stated that it met with three key stakeholders on the island, the Tobago House of Assembly and Tourism Minister Shamfa Cudjoe, the Tobago Division of the T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the Tobago Hotels and Tourism Association, to "chart a path forward for the business community and assist with the Tobago economy given the prevailing economic challenges."
The call for discussions with BATT was initiated by various Tobago stakeholders in light of recent foreclosure action taken by banks on a number of hotel and guest house properties on the island.
The island has suffered the economic fallout associated with the ongoing woes on the inter-island sea bridge.
Commenting specifically on its meeting with the Tobago Division of the Chamber and the Hotels and Tourism Association BATT said: "Several items were discussed where all parties contributed meaningfully to provide an overall view of the issues that were plaguing the Tobago businesses and by extension the economy. Some of the items discussed included: The business’ efficacy on the island, BATT outlook of the economy, the position of the Government Loan Guarantee Program and the way forward in assisting the business community"
The association added that, "the assurance was given by the member banks that they are committed to the success of their clients and would continue to work collectively and individually with the Tobago community in strengthening and building their businesses for the future."