. by providing tailored financing solutions, green funds, and risk mitigation tools, the banking sector can indeed drive the transition to a low carbon economy. we also recognise that the future of our banking industry depends on our people. through the efforts of cab, our bankers receive regular training and have the ability to pursue international designations. this is crucial, as investing in the next generation of 5 / 6 bis - central bankers'speeches banking professionals and fostering leadership that can navigate our rapidly changing world, will be key to our continued success ; especially as it relates to our ability to compete with other jurisdictions and comply with international standards. concluding remarks in closing, it is encouraging to note that as we look to the future with optimism, we are confident that through the tireless efforts of cab, the caribbean banking sector is wellpositioned to tackle the challenges ahead while embracing new opportunities. this conference therefore provides the forum whereby cab and its members can reaffirm their commitment to collaboration, innovation, and leadership, as our banking landscape continues to evolve. let us therefore move forward together with unity and a shared vision for a resilient, inclusive, and secure caribbean banking sector, one that will serve as a foundation for prosperity in our region for decades to come. i thank you. 6 / 6 bis - central bankers'speeches

are wheelchair accessible and easy to navigate for people who are visually impaired. their digital interfaces must also accommodate people with disabilities, and their staff must undergo periodic training to equip them to interact effectively with and assist vulnerable customers. at the central bank, we understand that some financial institutions will need time to retrofit their properties and make the necessary updates to their online systems. as such, time is allowed for these licensed entities to complete this process. one aspect of the guideline that was in place even before it was published was the requirement that all commercial banks offer at least one " no - fee account " to all of their clients. the guideline also notes that " specially tailored low - fee accounts " should be available for vulnerable groups, including pensioners, minors, and students, ensuring these accounts are equipped with features that cater to their specific needs. " we are aware that other central banks in the region have adopted a variety of approaches to address the challenging issues of financial inclusion, fees, and accessibility of services by vulnerable groups and i encourage all of you to consider these aspects of customer care when preparing your future business plans. ladies and gentlemen, we know that one of the greatest challenges facing our region today is the issue of climate change. our region is disproportionately impacted by acute climatic events such as hurricanes and floods, which have been increasing in frequency and intensity due to rising temperatures. these events can have severe economic consequences. for instance, the recent devastation caused by hurricane beryl is still fresh in our minds. it brought widespread damage, particularly to grenada, saint vincent and the grenadines and jamaica, while in barbados, our fisheries sector was severely impacted due to many vessels being damaged or completely destroyed. furthermore, the impact extends far beyond environmental degradation, creating income loss, property damage, and this can lead to an increase in non - performing loans, reduced profitability, and even the destruction of critical it and physical infrastructure in the banking sector. we therefore commend cab for placing this issue on the table during their annual meetings. by prioritising sustainability and promoting esg goals, we can ensure that our banks play a vital role in addressing the challenge of climate change, particularly through investments in green technology and renewable energy projects. financial institutions across the region, under the guidance of cab, therefore have an opportunity to strengthen and expand mechanisms that incentivise and empower businesses to adopt practices, that are environmentally sustainable and support climate resilience