News Release Archive
BUSINESS/CONSUMER SERVICES--CONSUMER ALERT! ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Department of Business and Consumer Services has been made aware of an Ontario company offering information, for a fee, about government loans and programs. "The sales pitch, in the form of direct mail, promises information on government loans or grants," said Business and Consumer Services Minister Sandy Jolly. "What the public should know is that the same information is available free from most federal and provincial departments." The company is offering a video and application information for $240, which it promises to refund if the applicant is not successful in obtaining a government grant or loan within 12 months. "There's no law to stop people from buying the service," said Ms. Jolly. "We simply want to make sure that they know the alternatives before they make a purchase." One function of Business and Consumer Services is to offer protection for consumers and promote fairness in the marketplace. Nova Scotians who have questions about a business or a product or service should contact the department at 902-424-5336 to inquire if there have been previous complaints filed. -30- Contact: Louise MacDonald 902-424-0394 trp Jan. 8, 1997 - 10:10 a.m.