OTTAWA – June 24, 2009
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC), an Ottawa based organization active on consumer protection issues in important public service industries such as telecommunications, energy and financial services has applauded the creation of the new Ontario Consumer Services ministry, formerly part of a portfolio that included small business. “This is important recognition that ordinary Ontario families need their own advocate at the Cabinet table who will make sure that they get a fair deal in the marketplace,” said Michael Janigan, PIAC’s executive director and general counsel. Janigan praised Ontario’s leadership in elevating the status of consumer affairs and said he looked forward to working with a minister whose sole focus will be bettering economic conditions for consumers. “Governments of all stripes are starting to realize that markets need rules, and also require protection for those whose pocketbooks may not be big enough to get the best deal from suppliers. An important first step in this process of reform is to recognize that consumer affairs is important enough to warrant its own cabinet position to ensure proper representation. We hope that other first ministers will follow Premier McGuinty’s example.”
Ted McMeekin, M.P.P. for Ancaster – Dundas- Flamborough was today named the new Minister of Consumer Services as part of a cabinet shuffle announced by the Premier.
For further information:
Michael Janigan
Executive Director and General Counsel
Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC)
ONE Nicholas Street, Suite 1204
Ottawa, ON
K1N7B7, Canada
Tele No.: 613 562-4002×26
Fax No.: 613 562-0007
www.piac.ca