With all this water around Trinidad and Tobago, citizens are still struggling to get a reliable supply, yet WASA continues to send the bills.
Paying for what you don’t receive, is that consumer protection?
The same question applies when we go shopping.
Walk through any supermarket and look at the packaging. Large bags and containers are often filled with air, while the quantity of the actual product seems to be getting smaller. Consumers pay more and receive less.
This is shrinkflation, and it is time the authorities pay attention.
What about the accuracy of weighing scales? If consumers are charged for a particular weight, they should receive that weight. There should be regular inspections to ensure nobody is being short-changed.
We once had consumer protection officers who went into supermarkets and businesses, checked prices, inspected scales and investigated complaints.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Government cannot keep telling citizens to tighten their belts while consumers are being squeezed at every turn.
Whether it is water, food or any product sold by weight, the principle is simple:
CONSUMERS MUST GET WHAT THEY PAY FOR.
Bring back serious, visible consumer protection. Check the scales. Check the packaging. Check the quantities.
And most importantly, protect the consumer before the consumer is left PAYING FOR AIR
Gordon Laughlin,
Westmoorings
