CAC to focus on basic rights of consumers
CHIEF executive officer of the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) Dolsie Allen says the entity will be focusing on the basic rights of consumers and is urging them to be knowledgeable, vigilant and informed as they engage in their business activities.
She told
JIS News that this will be reinforced during Consumer Rights Week, which is being observed from March 15-19, under the theme: ‘Empower yourself…Know your rights’.
Allen said the week’s observance will commence on World Consumer Rights Day which is recognised globally on March 15.
“World Consumer Rights Day is an opportunity to promote the basic rights of all consumers. The occasion also calls for us to mobilise consumers to take action against any form of unfair practices within the marketplace and ensure that their rights are protected,” she noted.
The CEO said the eight basic rights are: The right to safety, to be informed, to choose, to be heard, to the satisfaction of basic needs, to redress, to consumer education, and to a healthy environment.
“We educate consumers on their rights and responsibilities because, as consumers, you have a responsibility to ask the relevant questions. Ensure that you have enough information when you go to do your transactions…ensure that you read the contracts, the small print, and ask for warranty on high-value purchases,” Allen said.
She explained that the CAC has the mandate to ensure that consumers receive fair settlement of just claims, including compensation for misrepresentation or unsatisfactory service, such as the purchase of items that are defective or do not meet the anticipated need or requirement.
Allen also encouraged consumers to “know and stand up for their rights…take the bold step to complain and do it quickly.”
“Do not wait for too much time to elapse before you make your complaint, and if you go back to where you purchased the item and have difficulty getting any form of redress, we ask that you call us at the CAC,” she said.
Throughout the week, schools across the island and targeted parish libraries in the three counties will mount displays on consumer-related issues and topics.
