11Functions of Office of Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading

11 Functions of Office of Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading

(1)  The functions of the Office are –

(a) [Section 11 Subsection (1) amended by No. 17 of 1996, Applied:24 Jan 2002] to receive complaints from consumers in relation to matters which affect their interests as consumers, to consider and, if the Director deems it warranted, to investigate those complaints, and to take such action in respect of those complaints as seems proper to the Director; and

(b) [Section 11 Subsection (1) amended by No. 17 of 1996, Applied:24 Jan 2002] to receive complaints of fraudulent or deceptive practices in relation to matters which affect, or are likely to affect, the interests of consumers and to take such action in respect of those complaints as seems proper to the Director; and

(c) [Section 11 Subsection (1) amended by No. 17 of 1996, Applied:24 Jan 2002] to advise and assist consumers who seek from the Office information or guidance on matters affecting their interests as consumers; and

(d) to consult with and undertake the dissemination of information in relation to matters which affect, or are likely to affect, the interests of consumers to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, advertisers, and any other suppliers of goods or services; and

(e) to collect, collate, and disseminate information in respect of matters affecting the interests of consumers.

(2)  [Section 11 Subsection (2) amended by No. 32 of 2006, s. 6, Applied:18 Dec 2006] The Office shall assist the Committee in the carrying out of its functions and the exercise of its powers.

(3)  Subsection (1) shall not be construed to require the Director or any staff of the Office to give, or hold himself out as ready or competent to give, to any consumer advice in relation to the rights and liabilities in law of the consumer concerning any matter, or aid in the enforcement of such rights.