Write a comment“The Cross Border Consumer” was the topic of the second Border People (www.borderpeople.info) User Group meeting on 14 December 2009 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dundalk. The meeting brought together key organisations with a vested interest in business and consumer activity in the border region as part of the EU INTERREG IVA funded project managed by the Centre for Cross Border Studies in partnership with the North South Ministerial Council. Speakers Antoinette McKeown, Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Consumer Council, and Caroline Curneen, PR and Marketing Manager from the European Consumer Centre in Ireland, highlighted some of the issues and sources of help for the consumer when they shop across the border.
Antoinette McKeown raised concerns that consumers in the border region are getting an unfair deal in public service provision including health and travel. She commented on the poor service consumers were receiving from banks especially the lack of mortgage packages for cross-border workers and the exorbitant fees frequently charged for common cross-border transactions. To protect businesses and the consumer she called for a “Charter of Fair Banking”.
Caroline Curneen commented on the rising trend of online shopping, which rose by 33% in 2007. She reiterated the lack of awareness of consumer rights and explained how the European Consumer Centre in Ireland could assist in the event of a dispute between consumer and trader. She also introduced an online Shopping Assistant that helps identify trustworthy websites and provides advice for consumers regarding shopping online.
Speaker Andrew Mawhinney, Dundalk Town Centre Commercial Manager informed the audience of the current Dundalk re-branding project “Nice One”. The initiative highlights what’s on offer in Dundalk and aims to entice shoppers and quality businesses back into the town. The initiative has united local business owners and already over 100 have signed up to the Nice One Gift Card.
Following the presentations a lively discussion took place and opinions were aired about the impact on southern border towns of the current frenzy of cross-border shopping in towns such as Newry. Brian O’Neil, Chairman of the Dundalk BIDS initiative raised the issue of the hold that large UK retailers have on smaller shopping centres and the blandness that ensues. He commented on the unique shopping experience that local town centres, including Dundalk, can offer in comparison.
Border People Manager Joe Shiels commented on the need for further discussion on cross-border collaboration, he thanked speakers and guests for their continued support for the Border People project.
If you would like further information on the project please visit www.borderpeople.info or you wish to attend future events please contact Joe Shiels, Border People Project Manager on 028 3751 1550 or email j.shiels@qub.ac.uk
