As part of its advisory service, the European Consumer Centre (ECC) has produced three free brochures on a number of consumer issues - home improvements, used cars and consumers' statutory rights when buying goods and services.

The ECC has dealt with more than 10,000 queries in 1999, with complaints about cars and home improvement jobs accounting for approximately 9 per cent and 8 per cent respectively.

The ECC is jointly funded by the European Commission and the Director of Consumer Affairs. It provides free information and advice service to the public about their rights as EU consumers and the benefits to them of the single market. A free litigation advice service is also provided for consumers involved in a Small Claims action.

For copies of the information leaflets, contact the ECC at tel: (01) 809 0607, fax: (01) 809 0601, e-mail: ecic@indigo.ie.