While addressing a conference on consumer rights, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, Dr Helena Dalli, said that more emphasis has to be made by Government on consumer education. The Minister said this has to start from primary school level and cover all stages in life.

Minister Dalli said that the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) will be at the forefront in raising awareness among the general public on issues related to consumer education.

Minister Dalli said that consumer education should include responsible buying to ensure that consumers are aware of the advantages and risks to their health, environment and societal development when making a purchase.

She said that all efforts should be made to ensure that consumers are IT literate in order for them to maximise the potential of online shopping, internet banking and to have access to more information about different products. Dr Dalli said that people should be taught from an early age how to save, budget and compare prices and quality.

Minister Dalli said that consumer education should be sensitive to vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and people with literacy problems and other social difficulties.

Dr Dalli thanked the local NGO ‘Association for Consumer Rights’ for organising the conference and said that NGOs who work in the area of consumer rights should focus their work on educating the consumers and empower them to take action when the goods and services they buy are not up to standard or as agreed upon with the seller.

Dr Dalli said that harmony between consumers and sellers is important and has benefits for both.

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