BSP signed an agreement with the Hela Transitional Authority (HTA) today (03/05/12) to set up a BSP container branch to provide banking services to the local community.
BSP is committed to opening with a full service branch in Tari, the first for many years in Tari, and promoting cheaper banking for all local people and businesses. Construction of the branch is scheduled to take approximately four months to complete and will start within days.
ATMs will also be set up as part of the branch so cash will be available for extended hours each day and during weekends, while EFTPoS devices will be installed in and near Tari so that customers can use their money without carrying cash.
BSP Group Chief Executive Officer Ian B Clyne, Larry Andagali - Paramount Chief/Managing Director, Trans Wonderland Ltd, Hon. James Marabe - Tari/Pori MP & Chairman HTA and William Bando - CEO HTA inked the agreement in Port Moresby.
"We are pleased to partner with the Hela Transitional Authority and appreciate the support they have provided for our branch to be set up in the heart of the community. These banking services will further add to our customer's convenience," Mr Clyne said.
"The partnership is a major step towards offering efficient banking services to the rural masses and we are committed to providing our customers with services that meet their various needs and add extra value to their daily transactions," Mr Clyne added.
Hon Marabe described the occasion as another important milestone towards bringing development to the local communities.
"The establishment of this new banking facility will bring banking services closer to the LNG project and the surrounding communities and we thank BSP having the rural people at heart," he said.
Mr Andagali and Mr Bando expressed similar sentiments and further urged the community to look after the facilities provided.
"Banking services are fundamental to the development of our province, and we must all take ownership, protect and ensure BSP stays in our community," Mr Andagali said.
"BSP's decision to set camp in Tari is greatly appreciated by all Hela people and we truly thank BSP for the commitment shown in taking banking into rural areas," Mr Bando added.
Caption: BSP Group CEO Ian B Clyne and Tari/Pori MP James Marabe, who is also HTA Chairman hold the signed agreement, while members of HTA and BSP look on.
