A proposal for the government to partner with banks to deploy Automated Banking Machines (ABMs) in areas underserved by the banking network, has been met with scepticism from some members of parliament.

Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) Governor Richard Byles presented the proposal at today’s meeting of parliament’s Economy and Production Committee.

Governor Byles explained that under the partnership, the government would foot the initial cost of procuring and installing the ABMs while the banks would pay for their annual upkeep.

In response to the proposal, Member of Parliament for St. Catherine Southern, Fitz Jackson argued that ABM services should not be treated as a favour to the public.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for St. James Central Heroy Clarke said banks should ensure their customers can access services comfortably.