The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Minister of Service NL:
Mr. Speaker, March is Fraud Prevention Month in Newfoundland and Labrador, and this year marks the 14th anniversary in Canada.
The month-long crime prevention initiative is aimed at educating and informing consumers and communities on how to recognize, report and stop fraud. It unites more than 80 law enforcement agencies with public and private sector organizations across the country in their efforts to raise awareness and protect Canadians from fraud.
This year’s theme is Recognize it. Report it. Stop it. and speaks to the need for all of us to be vigilant when it comes to fraudulent activities and report any activity that does not appear to be legitimate. In 2017, our government implemented a Fraud Management Policy which provides guidance to employees on reporting of fraud and processes for management to follow when they become aware of fraudulent activity.
During Fraud Prevention Month, and every other month of the year, our government is encouraging consumers to take time to learn about ways to protect themselves from fraud. Anyone wishing to have more information on consumer protection can contact the Consumer Affairs Division in my department, or email consumeraffairs@gov.nl.ca.
Mr. Speaker, the cost of fraud can involve more than financial losses and may also result in the loss of property and personal security for victims. We remain committed to raising awareness about fraud and providing consumers with the tools and information they need to identify and avoid fraudulent activity.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.