OTTAWA – Federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty today once again revealed the Harper Conservatives’ disregard for consumers with his announcement of a voluntary code of conduct for Canada’s credit- and debit-card industries.
“Why is this government hesitating to introduce legislation that would guarantee consumers are protected?” asked New Democrat Consumer Protection critic Glenn Thibeault (Sudbury). “These delays will only make it that much harder to hold these companies to account since once the new debit networks are active, it will be a much greater challenge to rein them in.”
The proposed Code of Conduct will be circulated for a 60-day comment period. During that time, stakeholders have been asked to submit their views on how best to monitor compliance within the proposed Code.
According to research conducted by consumer advocacy group Option Consommateurs, voluntary codes do not serve the best interests of consumers.
“Why hasn’t this government learned from past experiences, from failed voluntary codes of the past?” said Thibeault. “This shows the government once again is currying favour with big businesses rather than taking a hard stance that is in the best interests of consumers.”
the tories don’t care. harper is corrupt and must be thrown in jail. he does absolutely nothing. when he does do something, he’s screwing everybody. don’t pay taxes till harper is gone.
When was the last any law “introduced” (by any govt for that matter) protected consumers?
Politicians were, are and will be protecting their friends (corporations who “donate” money for the well being of common man) and relatives (so that they could come to politics to protect their friends).
Learn to live with this cycle.
No, don’t learn to live with this cycle, learn to fight back and start writing some e-mails; it’s better than complacency, any day.
Natalie: Believe me; I wrote to every MP, MPP, alderman, mayor etc., It is a good thing that I have their email. Else I will be bankrupt by buying paper and stamps.