Food and Drug Department and other Consumer Protection Bodies

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Under the theme “Helping consumers choose Healthy Diets” consumers in Guyana and around the world will join in celebrating World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) on Sunday March 15.  A number of activities will be conducted by consumer organisations to highlight the rights and responsibilities of consumers globally.Activities planned for the 2015 observance commenced yesterday with the hosting of live radio programmes that would continue until March 12.A live television programme is also planned for NCN Television this evening. These radio and television programmes will inform consumers of their rights, responsibilities and how they can choose healthy diets.In addition, there will be a “cook for change competition” for Region Ten secondary schools to create awareness among youths and their parents of the need to prepare and consume wholesome and healthy meals. These activities will be culminated with the hosting of a seminar and exhibition for consumers, producers, manufacturers, and caterers of foods at the Guyana International Conference Center, Liliendaal on March 13, 2015.According to Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), Lloyd David, with over 250 member organisations in 120 countries, “Consumer International”, which is a world federation of consumer groups, utilizes WCRD to place specific emphasis on examining the injustices meted out to consumers and issues which undermine their rights.“It is the mission of Consumer International to champion Consumer Rights internationally in order to help protect and empower consumers everywhere. As such, emphasis is also placed on reminding consumers of their basic rights which are the right to- satisfaction of basic needs, safety, information, choice, be heard, redress, consumer education and healthy environment.” David emphasized.In keeping with the theme, the Consumer Affairs Division of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce in collaboration with the GNBS, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, the Government Analyst – Food and Drug Department and other Consumer Protection Bodies, has planned a week of activities to share information to the General public and to encourage consumers to become involved in efforts to champion their cause.“As we join to commemorate WCRD 2015, consumers are encouraged to tune in and participate in each of the activities planned. Participation will give consumers the opportunity to become more knowledgeable of their rights and responsibilities, the issues and challenges that affect them, and how they can overcome these challenges through education, vigilance and cooperation with consumer bodies in Guyana.” David noted.