Bermuda's consumers need to know their rights and not fear to call on Government when it comes to dealing with businesses that deliver faulty products and bad customer service.

And according to the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), businesses which are pulling the wool over consumers' eyes by dealing in shady business practices will be dealt with severely by Government.

The message came from DCA Inspector, Marisa Sharpe, who told Hamilton Rotarians yesterday about the need for consumers to be more cautious and aware of the items they consume.

"A lot of times, people don't know what their rights are," Mrs. Sharpe said. "They don't know where to turn. And we just want to point them in the right direction."

In her ten months heading the post, she said the department receives an average of five to ten complaints a day, mostly dealing with landlord and rental complaints. And she encouraged people who believed they have been handled shoddily by an establishment to voice their concern to her department.

And Mrs. Sharpe said the Government agency has stepped up their crusade to educate consumers, especially about the rules and regulations of the recently enacted Consumer Protection Act 1999.

"The Consumer Protection Act 1999 became effective in December 2000," she said. "Consequently, we now have the power to enforce. We are excited about this as it puts us on par with organisations worldwide. As a result of the legislation, we can make safety regulations in regards to products.

She added: "Clause 12 of the Act makes it an offence to engage in unfair business practices. Once a complaint is made to our department, the party in question will be investigated. Persons found to be guilty of an offence are liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 or six months imprisonment.

Mrs. Sharpe pointed out that now that Bermuda has fallen in line with US standards of consumer rights and guidelines, she believed that more protection is now available to the public.

She exampled the recalling of certain items from the shelves.

She said: "Recalls on products from abroad also apply to Bermuda. Since the implementation of the Act, you may remember that several products have been recalled, namely the toy scooter, Evinrude boat engine and the Evenflo Child's High Chair.

"As toys and baby products are the products recalled most, regulations for toys is another aspect of product safety we are working towards."

Mrs. Sharpe pointed out that the DCA is also seeking stricter guidelines about the foods that are eaten and believed that the department has become more proactive as a result of the passed legislation.

"The DCA sees its role as levelling the playing field between consumers and businesses," she said. "We want people to take advantage of our services so that it doesn't take advantage of you."