CAC Scores Big On Bad Gas To Consumers

May 21, 2020 | By Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie |

The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) a government watchdog Commission designed to protect consumers has aired big on the Bad Gas debacle that ruined many car engines and devastated the lives of many motorists.

Bad Gas

Gas purchased at legitimate gas stations turned out to have been contaminated. The level of contamination was widespread and ruined the lives of many consumers and for many their only source of income. Taxi operators, owners of fleets and the ordinary car owner or van owner suffered in 2015/2016. We were all virtually helpless. There was nowhere to turn. There were no standards either. It was uncharted waters for motorists. Engines had to be changed and tanks of gas had to be drained. It was a nightmare.

Suicide

The Bureau Of Standards was cooperative but helpless. A frustrated motorists named Peter, a taxi operator of St. Ann, 55 years old said: “I felt like killing myself. My car is my only tool to feed my family and it is ruined”. Tears came to my eyes as he poured out his grief to me.

Mr. Ellis, a returning resident of Clarendon said “My car engine had to be replaced, as a result of the bad gas. I spent $150,000 to purchase an imported new engine”

Who Was To Be Held Accountable?

The Jamaica Gasoline Retailers Association (JGRA), operators of Gas Stations islandwide said not us. Petrojam said not us. The CAC had to come to our rescue. The CAC stood up and is now more highly respected. It did what it is mandated to do. Protect the interest of consumers.

In a release dated today Wednesday May 20 they said an “Ex Gratia Payment” will be made to legitimate claimants. We are delighted. Details will be released on Friday 22nd May.

We hate to single out anyone, but Mr. Vernon Derby, broadcaster at Nationwide at “Your Service” and a board member of CAC did push for this compensation. Congrats to Ms.Dulsie Allen and the team at CAC for a job well done.

Commentary

We await the final outcome.

Vision is delighted that this nightmare is coming to an end for consumers who got a raw deal with contaminated gas. Shameful indeed. We as consumers deserved better. Congrats CAC.

Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie is a Consumer Advocate and also Senior National & International Correspondent for Vision Newspaper