On-line service provides enhanced consumer protection

Government Services Minister Dianne Whalen announced today that a new on-line service designed to better protect consumers looking to purchase a new vehicle is now available through the government Web site.

The web-based Lien Check system allows consumers to search the province�s Personal Property Registry for loans against cars, boats, trailers, mobile homes, farm tractors, off-road vehicles, aircraft and outboard motors.

The Personal Property Registry is where financial interests in personal property are recorded. Lenders can register a lien on property when granting a loan as protection in the event the money is not repaid.

"A simple search using Lien Check protects a person from losing their investment because of an outstanding lien they are not even aware of," said Minister Whalen. "It�s a quick and inexpensive way to reduce the financial risks associated with buying used property."

This service is consistent with government�s commitment to make greater use of information technology for common transactions with government. Before buying a previously-owned item, consumers should search Lien Check using a serial number (such as the vehicle identification number on a car). Lien Check uses a secure credit card transaction system and the cost is $10 per search.

Consumers can access Lien Check through the government Web site from their personal computer, or they can use the personal computer located in the Registry of Deeds office at Confederation Building.

Lien Check can be found at //www.gov.nl.ca/gs/cca/cr/prop-lien-check.stm

Lien Check is a joint initiative between the four Atlantic provinces through Atlantic Canada On-Line. Consumers can use Lien Check to search for liens against property in the Atlantic provinces. Each province sets its own search fee.

Media contact: Tracy Barron, Communications, (709) 729-4860 or 690-6157

204 08 12                                          3:15 p.m.