MSBC Newsletter VANCOUVER, October 26, 2009: View this newletter and read about the upcoming AGM in Nanaimo, BC. News Release VANCOUVER, March 1, 2006: A report from a Society member residing in southern Vancouver Island indicated that individuals were falsely representing themselves as representatives of the Memorial Society of British Columbia. The purpose of the representation was apparently to make an appointment at the member's home to update personal information because of 'a change in legislation.' "This is an unethical sales tactic used to gain access to the homes of the vulnerable," said Walter Johanson, Executive Director of the Memorial Society of British Columbia. "The Memorial Society is a consumer group which protects its members from such practices. It is illegal to initiate a call for such purposes." The matter has been referred to the Central Saanich police department as well as the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority for investigation. Johanson spoke with the manager of the alleged funeral home. He denied that any of this happened. "It's not company policy," he said. "Unfortunately, this is a pattern of abuse over the past 14 years at least," says Johanson. "If someone claims to represent the Memorial Society and wants to make a home appointment, then just say 'no'. Call the police immediately. It violates paragraph 30 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act." |