“Gift cards have become a very popular option for consumers,” said Attorney General Gerard Greenan. “They are convenient to purchase, and allow the recipient to exercise a certain amount of choice in selecting a gift. However, with their popularity there have also been some concerns, including expiry dates and extra fees.”

Many jurisdictions in Canada have already implemented gift card legislation. Generally, this legislation prohibits expiry dates on most gift cards, prohibits most administration fees, and requires clear disclosure of all fees and other terms and conditions. This public consultation will help determine whether similar legislation should be introduced in Prince Edward Island.

“A recent Canwest News Service article stated that 94 per cent of Canadians intend to purchase gift cards this holiday season,” said Minister Greenan. “I would like to remind Islanders that we do not currently have gift card legislation in place, and they should always inquire about expiry dates and extra fees when purchasing gift cards.”

To participate in the consultation, members of the public and interested parties are asked to submit written comments by January 31, 2010.

The consultation paper is available on the PEI Government website at: www.gov.pe.ca/consumerservices. Copies can also be requested from the Consumer, Corporate and Insurance Services Division of the Office of the Attorney General at 4th floor Shaw Building, 95 Rochford St, PO Box 2000, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7N8 or by telephone at (902) 368-4580 or 1-800-658-1799.