Northern Ireland needs a confident consumer's voice if the economy is to become stronger, Enterprise Minister Sir Reg Empey claimed today.
The minister told the launch of a consumer strategy in Belfast that a strong consumer lobby would help "drive up business performance and competitiveness".
"It is therefore timely that this strategy has been launched soon after the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment's corporate plan, as being responsive to the consumer voice is an essential element in the development of a modern economy," he said.
"The consumer strategy contains a number of important themes and action commitments. These will be taken forward by government over the coming months with my own department in the lead.
"The strategy commits the department to setting up a consumer helpline and a portal computer website. Whether online or on the phone, these initiatives will help consumers get help when and where they need it."
The consumer strategy was presented at the inaugural meeting of the new Consumer Councils' Forum bringing together consumer groups focused on strengthening and promoting consumer representation.
Sir Reg said the strategy would improve and simplify consumers' access to groups providing advice. It would also "ease the frustration felt by many who are confused by the range of bodies providing advice".
PA