Can consumers’ claims be assigned to a consumer association or representative body and brought by that body?
With the exception of class actions under the Class Action Act, consumers can bring their claims only in their own name. There is, however, no bar for third parties, such as consumer associations, to assist consumers in the proceedings. The Consumer Ombudsman may assist a consumer in an individual case, if considered important for the application of the law or the general interest of consumers, or if the counterparty business does not comply with a decision of the Consumer Disputes Board (see question 8.4 below).
