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ePaper created 2014-06-22, 15:43:25 | version 1.31.00
17The English Newspaper for Gran Canaria TheCanaryNews.com News, Views & Sunshine Summer 2014 the Timeshare Directive - under which as far as we are aware not a single prosecution has been made, even though there seems to be ample evidence of breaches. Data / cold calling Many of the businesses approach- ing timeshare owners (disposal, legal, resales, clubs etc.) cold call. There has been considerable concern over where they get their information from. Strong evidence exists that data has been stolen from resorts and used/ sold on. The accuracy of descriptions regarding products sold This principally concerns so-called “leisure credits” products. These are primarily sold on the basis of up front payments and top up fees etc. enabling the purchasers to benefit from exceptional savings. Many consumers and a number of consumer activists have expressed views that the travel actually be- ing provided could be purchased at least at the same price via (for example) standard online pur- chasing - without any need for up front payments etc. - and that this would imply that the products are being sold under false pretences. There are a number of other ele- ments being looked at, including ensuring that there is a robust li- cence and enforcement system for all who sell / tout for business on the streets throughout Europe - backed by rules and codes of con- duct. To be fair, this would include even the likes of restaurants, bars etc. This will enable identification of both the individuals promoting and their employers - both to be held liable for any breaches. This has the potential to help prevent false promises and curb nuisances. There is a great opportunity here to provide better protection to consumers and demonstrate that the sector is making extraordinary efforts to improve confidence and highlight the importance of the product to many very satisfied owners and the importance of it in terms of the contribution the legitimate industry makes particu- larly to local economies - of which the Canaries is a great example. Having previously dealt with Kwikchex this publication is confident of their intention to act both with integrity and transparency and trust that industry players will recognise the imperative to do the same.