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Discuss the rights of consumers under the terms of the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 - Leaving Cert Business - Question (B) - 2011
Question (B)
Discuss the rights of consumers under the terms of the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980. Illustrate two forms of redress available to consumers for brea... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the rights of consumers under the terms of the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 - Leaving Cert Business - Question (B) - 2011
Step 1
Discuss the rights of consumers under the terms of the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980.
Answer
The Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 grants several rights to consumers concerning the goods and services provided. These include:
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Goods should be of merchantable quality: This means that the goods sold must meet reasonable standards of quality, durability, and performance. For example, a television should function as expected without defects.
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Fitness for Purpose: The goods must be fit for any particular purpose that the buyer specifies, especially if the seller is aware of this intended use. For instance, if a consumer requests a waterproof jacket, the seller must ensure it truly is waterproof.
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Description and samples: Goods must match any description provided by the seller. If a consumer orders floral wallpaper from a catalogue, the delivered product must match that description accurately.
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Services must be performed with care and attention: When a service is provided, such as car servicing, it must be done competently and according to the standards set within the industry.
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Right to reject: Consumers have the right to reject goods that do not comply with these standards, leading to a full refund.
The Act protects consumers by ensuring that they receive goods and services that meet specific criteria, thereby offering a layer of trust in transactions.
Step 2
Illustrate two forms of redress available to consumers for breach of the Act.
Answer
In case of a breach of the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980, consumers have various forms of redress available to them:
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Refund: If a product is found to be faulty or not as described, consumers are entitled to a full refund if they return the product within a reasonable timeframe. This is fundamental in ensuring that financial loss is mitigated.
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Repair or Replacement: Consumers may request that the faulty product be repaired or replaced. If the product does not meet the satisfactory quality or fitness for purpose standards, the seller must either fix the issue or provide a substitute that works correctly. This form of redress ensures consumers receive a product that meets the outlined expectations.