CGSO

Purpose of the Code

Section 2 of the Code sets out that the purpose of the Code is to:

Raise the standards of good conduct in the industry without endangering the vitality and growth of business.
Generate growth in the industry by increasing the level of certainty for all Participants.
Offer guidance to Participants in the industry on implementing and complying with the CPA, and on what constitutes fair business practice within the industry.
Educate consumers on their rights and the redress available to them should a Participant breach the CPA or the Code.
Provide a scheme of alternative dispute resolution as described in section 82(6) of the CPA.

The CGSO's functions include the obligation to ensure compliance with the Code by:

Investigating and evaluating alleged contraventions of the Code upon receipt of a complaint.
Attempting to facilitate a settlement between parties.
Making a recommendation as to how a dispute should be settled.
At the request of a party to a dispute, recording the resolution of the dispute as an order in terms of Section 70(3)(a) of the Act.
With a complainant's consent, including in the consent order an award of damages to that complainant in terms of Section 70(4) of the Act.
At the request and cost of a party to a dispute, submitting the order to the Tribunal or High Court to be made a consent order, in terms of its rules and Section 70(3)(b).
Terminating the process by notice to the parties in terms of Section 70(2) of the Act.
Educating the public, consumers, suppliers, staff, and other interested parties about the Ombud's office, its procedures and time periods, the remedies available, and how to lodge a complaint and obtain feedback on its status.
Providing access to information in accordance with the Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000, and striving for continual improvement of the complaint handling process and quality of service.