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CAC Secures $25 Million for Aggrieved Consumers

By: , March 17, 2016

The Key Point:

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) has secured in excess of $25 million on behalf of aggrieved consumers for the period April 2015 to January 2016, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organisation, Dolsie Allen, has disclosed.

The Facts

  • As it relates to motor vehicles, the CEO emphasised the need for consumers to shop around at the various car marts to ascertain prices, the terms and conditions of the contracts, before making a purchase.
  • She urged consumers 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 prints, and ask for warranty on high value purchases.”

The Full Story

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) has secured in excess of $25 million on behalf of aggrieved consumers for the period April 2015 to January 2016, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organisation, Dolsie Allen, has disclosed.

In an interview with JIS News, Mrs. Allen informed that the sum was for the settlement of 989 of 1,374 complaints received, representing a 72 percent resolution rate.

She informed that the most frequent complaints filed were in the categories of electrical equipment and appliances, accounting for 30 percent; utilities, 14 percent; other services, 12 percent and motor vehicles and parts, 9 percent.

Mrs. Allen said ‘electrical equipment and appliances’ continues to be the leading category over several periods and stressed the need for consumers to take time out to properly examine items for defects and read tip sheets that are provided at furniture and appliance stores, as these can guide them in their purchasing decisions.

As it relates to motor vehicles, the CEO emphasised the need for consumers to shop around at the various car marts to ascertain prices, the terms and conditions of the contracts, before making a purchase.

“Importantly, they should secure the services of a certified or experienced mechanic to examine vehicles and check for defects, or any other issues that may arise, before purchasing,” she advised.

Mrs. Allen said that the CAC is dedicated to educating consumers on their rights and responsibilities and to assist in resolving problems and challenges that may arise while conducting various forms of commercial activities.

“We realise and accept that the global environment is changing and persons just need to be up to speed on these changes in order to cope…so, we have to ensure that they are not being taken advantage of and whatever they pay for, they receive in terms of value for money,” the CAC Head said.

She urged consumers 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 prints, and ask for warranty on high value purchases.”

The CEO advised persons to inform the CAC about anomalies in the marketplace. “Let us know the issues, so we can address them and work together in ensuring that we have a population of vigilant, knowledgeable, discriminating and well-informed consumers,” she said.

For further information on consumer-related issues or queries, persons can call the CAC at toll-free 1-888-991-4470, 906-5425, visit the website at www.cac.gov.jm or the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cac.gov.jm.

Last Updated: March 17, 2016

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