A new forum aimed at enhancing cooperation and information sharing between regulatory bodies within the Bailiwick is being launched.
The Guernsey Consumer Cooperation Forum (GCCF) has been established to enhance exchanges of best practices, joint research, market analysis, and collaborative efforts on outreach.
The partnership brings together the Office of Data Protection Authority (ODPA), the Competition Regulatory Authority (GCRA), and the Channel Islands Financial Ombudsman (CIFO).
“More than ever consumer rights are intersecting in the regulatory spheres of privacy, consumer protection or promoting competition,” said Bailiwick Data Protection Commissioner Brent Homan. “In creating this alliance our offices are expanding our capacity and amplifying our ability to serve and protect the citizens of Guernsey”.
Douglas Melville, Principal Ombudsman & Chief Executive of the CIFO, emphasised the power of collaboration.
“The journey of change to create a robust consumer protection framework for Guernsey is a team effort. By working together, regulators and other bodies like CIFO can support each other in the performance of our respective independent roles but also leverage the power of collective action where appropriate.”
“People expect more from businesses and governments, demanding transparency and assurances that their interests are being promoted and protected,” said GCRA Chief Executive Michael Byrne.
“Guernsey’s approach will shape its economic competitiveness and reputation as a responsible jurisdiction.”
Mr Byrne continued, “By creating this forum, we, as regulators, are showing consumers, citizens, and other jurisdictions that Guernsey takes these responsibilities seriously and works together to address them.”
The signing ceremony took place at the ODPA.