Dear Editor,

Over the past few months, there have been many changes to businesses and government services that have brought into focus the need for improved consumer advocacy.

We have seen the amalgamation of companies, the closing down of some, and also the rise of new businesses. We have seen enormous price movements in various government services, amidst poor service and regard from Government.

With all that is happening, I am very displeased at the level of advocacy by consumer watch groups, but more so the laid-back, “I don’t care” attitude of many of my fellow consumers. Many complain privately but are unwilling to go public about the horrendous decline in customer service, increasing prices, and the silence from Government.

I take this opportunity to urge consumers to speak up and speak out more on issues affecting them. Issues such as price movements, customer service, lack of competition, lack of accountability, lack of transparency, and others. Whether it is in the private sector or government agencies, we must speak up in defence of our rights as consumers. We cannot sit idly and allow companies and governments to treat us as if we must take whatever they dish out to us.

Carlene Wilson

Advocate

Jamaica Consumers United

jamaicaconsumers@gmail.com