NLIS 4
March 22, 2001
(Government Services and Lands)
New initiatives in consumer protection
Walter Noel, Minister of Government Services and Lands, is renaming the Commercial and Corporate Affairs Division of his department to more appropriately reflect its responsibilities in protecting consumer interests.
The branch will, in future, be known as Consumer and Commercial Affairs.
Mr. Noel said: "Significant strides have been made in consumer protection since Government Services and Lands was created in 1996. Departmental staff have done a great job of increasing accessibility and broadening services. We intend to build on this progress to ensure citizens of our province have first class services available.
"Another specific initiative we will be taking is the establishment of a Consumer Advisory Committee of citizens which would meet periodically with the minister to assess programs and services, and provide advice on how they may be improved. It is often easy to get input from industry but more difficult to get a clear response from consumers. I would welcome advice from anyone interested in contributing to this process.
"The main function of the Consumer and Commercial Affairs Branch is protection of consumers. We do this every day in many ways, including handling inquiries and complaints, settling disputes between landlords and tenants, licensing companies and individuals in the financial sector, regulating lotteries, and registering security for people's property.
"I am enthused about these two initiatives, and look forward to working more closely with citizens."
Contact: Rick Callahan, Director of Communications, (709) 729-4860.
2001 03 22
12:40 p.m.
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