CAC secures more than $36 million for consumers

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) says it has secured more than $36 million in refund/compensation on behalf of aggrieved consumers from April 2022 to present.

The entity also said it handled 1,268 complaints. The figures were reported by the CAC's CEO, Dolsie Allen, who was addressing a Jamaica Information Service 'Think Tank' recently.

Allen disclosed that of the complaints that have been handled so far, 882 have been amicably resolved.

This figure, she said, "is a little lower than normal".

"We have been having some challenges during this year ... but as we get closer to the end of the financial year, where all their records will be audited, I'm sure the figure will look even better," she said..

Allen pointed out that the electrical equipment and appliances category accounted for 23.62 per cent of the complaints, while 'other services' and utilities accounted for 22.21 per cent and 13 per cent, respectively.

"In terms of the refund/compensation, motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts would be the top category with just a little over $16 million, while other services accounted for $6.3 million, and electrical equipment and appliances accounted for $4.9 million," Allen said.

"We, therefore, encourage our consumers not to throw their hands in the air... . If you have a problem ... go back to where you purchased the item, and if you are not getting through, then that is where the Consumer Affairs Commission comes in," Allen said.

To file a complaint, consumers are encouraged to contact the CAC through the agency's website at https://www.cac.gov.jm/ or call (876) 619-4222-30.

They may also reach out to a representative through the CAC's mobile application, social media pages or visit any of the entity's offices located at 34 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 10; 30 Market Street, Montego Bay, St James; or 28 Caledonia Road, Mandeville, Manchester.