Consumerline promises advice for customers in NI

NIO Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister, Ian Pearson has launched ‘Consumerline’, a telephone helpline offering low-cost access to high quality, practical consumer advice.

Speaking at the launch this morning in the Europa Hotel, Mr Pearson said: "The Government is determined to build a fair, modern and prosperous local society, and there is no doubt in my mind that a fair deal for consumers and prosperity for businesses go hand in hand."

Research has shown that consumers often do not pursue complaints through a combination of a lack of knowledge and confidence. It has also shown that most contacts to Trading Standards authorities are consumer enquiries about purchases that simply went wrong.

The Consumerline telephone service, supported by consumerline.org, aims to provide reliable, practical and independent advice and information to the public on purchases of consumer goods and services, consumer credit and scams.

Advice can be accessed from anywhere in Northern Ireland using the on 0845 600 6262 lo-call telephone number and state-of-the-art contact centre technology. It is anticipated that the service will be capable of handling up to 90% of consumer calls on first contact.

Department of Trade and Industry estimates indicate that for every consumer advised of their rights there is a possible saving of around £100. If the number of calls reach expectations, then in the first year of operation local consumers stand to recoup some £4.5 million.

Technical and consulting support on the Consumerline project was provided by Lagan Technology, Aspect and PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

The DETI's Consumer Affairs Branch will visit shopping centres across Northern Ireland over the next three months with a roadshow to highlight the new service to consumers.

Following an 18-month pilot, a formal evaluation of the Consumerline service will be undertaken.

(SP)