TV show to boost consumer power

Consumer Council of Fiji in partnership with AusAID today launched an awareness television show hoped to enlighten consumers on their rights and responsibilities and ensure they do not fall into poverty when making credit purchases.

Dollars & Sense hits the screen today at 8pm on Fiji One and will run every Tuesdays over the next 13 weeks at the same time.

The show is aimed to educate and empower consumers on their rights and responsibilities before they sign on the dotted line when accessing credit such as hire purchase and other forms of consumer finance.

Council CEO Premila Kumar said the show will highlight real life experiences in the hope it will enlighten consumers on the “debt trap” they could find themselves in if they do not make informed decisions. And for those consumers who are already in deep, the show is envisioned to inform them about their rights and what they need to do to make sure their rights are protected.

The show will also highlight the role of financial institutions and credit providers as well as views of academics, consumer watchdogs and other stakeholders.

Kumar said the launch today is timely in that it coincides with the Suva on Sale, encompass the X-Mas and New Year sales through the “Back to School” sale late December-January.

AusAID first secretary Timothy Gill expressed delight in the soon-to-be aired show saying it will play a significant role in  tipping the balance of power towards the consumers.

He further said the show will help reduce the vulnerability of ordinary Fijians of falling into debt trap.

The show was made possible with funding support of F$270,000 by AusAID.

Kumar said they have yet to decide on additional episodes when the initial 13-week show ends saying it will depend on financial backing.

By Lavenia Vuadreu