The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

AMID complaints of price gouging, Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) Chairman Jerome Gomez is warning merchants not to increase their prices unfairly.

Many Bahamians took to social media and called into talk shows just before and in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew to complain about what they said are absurd price hikes for basic items.

It is unclear if the CPC has confirmed cases of price gouging; however its statement was a warning to merchants.

“Due to the many rumours of price gouging, the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) cautions businesses not to take unfair advantage of consumers following the devastation left behind by Hurricane Matthew,” Senator Gomez said.

“The CPC appeals to all businesses, particular those in the food, ice, water, hardware and lumber sectors, to maintain their current prices for these and other items and to be mindful of the fact that in this tough economy, Bahamians are already struggling to make every dollar count.

“We wish to bring to these businesses’ attention that any unfair price increases, at such a time of crisis, hurts a wide cross-section of persons, primarily, the poor, single parents and the elderly. Therefore, we encourage a spirit of fair play and social responsibility during this stressful and trying time,” Senator Gomez said.

“Should reports of price gouging be proved, the CPC will alert the government to these despicable acts and bring the full brunt of the law to bear upon businesses and/or persons engaging in price gouging. Taking advantage of consumers when they are down and out is indeed a most shameful, ungodly act.”

Persons are asked to report all incidents of price gouging to the CPC at 393-7795-7, on Facebook at cpcbahamas, email info@cpcbahamas.org or on the website at www.cpcbahamas.org.

Democratic National Alliance (DNA) Leader Branville McCartney is among those who have raised concerns about price gouging.

He told The Tribune on Monday that he is concerned about reports of businesses charging “three times” the normal price for essential supplies in the wake of Matthew.

However, Gowon Bowe, the chairman of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation, said he has not received specific complaints about merchants exploiting the aftermath of the hurricane and hiking prices.

Still, he urged the private sector to behave “with integrity and morality”.