**NDP NEWS RELEASE**

MP Charlie Angus (Timmins—James Bay) is deeply disappointed by CIBC’s decision to close their Matheson branch in July of 2019. Angus says despite record profits, CIBC continues its pattern of turning its back on rural communities.

“CIBC is displaying a real disregard for the customers and communities of Northern Ontario. At a time of record profits, the big banks are walking away on customers and communities. And yet, they continue to lobby government for breaks and favours while showing a total unwillingness to work with northern communities.”

CIBC’s Matheson closure comes on the heels of bank closures in South Porcupine and Englehart. Angus has been involved with community groups who attempted to work with the bank on maintaining local service but says senior management has shown little interest in maintaining rural banks.

 “Canadians should be able to expect better from their banks. Given the huge profits they make this kind of neglect isn’t acceptable. If Matheson residents want to keep their money in town, in an institution that’s shown real dedication to our communities, the Caisse Populaire is across the street.”

Filed under: Local News