National Quality Mark to Be Launched |
Contact: St. Lucia Bureau of Standards Friday May 31, 2002 - The National Standard Mark, the only quality mark enshrined in the legislation of St. Lucia will be officially launched next Friday June 7th 2002. Minister for Tourism, Investment Commerce and Consumer Affairs Hon Philip J. Pierre, will deliver the feature address at this important activity scheduled for the NIS Conference Centre. The National Standard Mark is a major component of the Bureau of Standards Product Certification Scheme and will only be issued to products which meet the requirements of the relevant national standard. The product certification scheme being used to grant the mark is based on ISO Guide 28 and involves a programme of rigorous inspection, examination, testing by accredited laboratories and continuous follow up evaluation for quality. The presence of the mark on a product therefore means that the Bureau is providing independent third party verification about its quality. Given the significance of the Standard Mark to the economic viability of local industry, all local manufacturers have been invited to the launch ceremony. It will also be attended by government, non governmental, service sector and consumer representatives. One of the highlights of the launch will be a detailed presentation on all aspects of the programme including the application procedure. The Bureau is extremely pleased that though the programme is voluntary in nature, it has received the full endorsement of both the St. Lucia Manufacturer’s Association and the Consumer Affairs Department. Dr. Alison Plummer Director of the Bureau says “the mark is being issued using globally accepted procedures. We have little doubt that it will receive recognition and acceptance in the international marketplace and should therefore have the impact of helping local manufacturers increase market share both locally and in export markets. During the coming week, a number of public awareness activities will be held on the National Mark using the theme “The Quality Seal that brings real benefits to industry and is a sign of consistent quality and safety.” |
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