You and the Law
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DOES JAMAICA HAVE A FRAMEWORK FOR CONSUMER PROTECTION?
The answer is YES.
Using the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection, to which Jamaica is a signatory, we see that there are many laws and institutions and mechanisms which between them, afford some measure of Consumer Protection.
Some are seen to be deficient, and it is one of the responsibilities of the modern, conscious consumer to use the channels open to him to make his views and opinions on the deficiencies known, so that change can be effected.
The Consumer Affairs Commission, which is one such channel, urges the consumer to use rational and peaceful means, to make his voice heard.
What are the laws and Institutions which fall under the heading of Consumer Protection? A shortlist of those which fit squarely are:
A. PHYSICAL SAFETY
* The Food and Drugs Act
* The Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation Act.
* The Standards Act
* The Public Health Act
* The Processed Food Act
B. PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF CONSUMER'S ECONOMIC INTERESTS
* The Sale of Goods Act
* The Hire Purchase Act
* The Trade Act
* The Fair Trading Act
C. STANDARDS FOR SAFETY AND QUALITY OF CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES
* The Weights and Measures Act
* The Standards Act
* The Processed Food Act
D. DISTRIBUTION FACILITIES FOR ESSENTIAL GOODS AND SERVICES
* The Trade Act
E. MEASURES ENABLING CONSUMERS TO OBTAIN REDRESS
* The Ombudsman Act
* The Trade Act
* The Hire Purchase Act
* The Standards Act
* The Rent Restriction Act
* The Fair Trading Act
F. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION PROGRAMMES
* The Consumer Affairs Commission
* The National Consumers' League
* The Fair Trading Commission
* Individual Ministries, Statutory Bodies and Government Depts.
G. MEASURES RELATING TO SPECIFIC AREAS
* The Pharmacy Act
* The Underground Water Control Act
* The National Water Commission Act
* The Parishes Water Supply Act
* The Natural Resources Conservation Act