The Confederation of Consumer Organisations (TÜ-ÖRKON) has announced that consumers can submit receipts and payment documents for the “illegal” beach service fees they pay during the summer season. These documents will be used to demand refunds from the beach operators.
In a joint statement by Hasan Y. Işık, Chairman of the Consumers Association, Ahmet Yıldırım, President of the Quality Life Association for Consumers, and Nuray Kemal, President of the Consumer Awareness and Rights Association, it was emphasised that Article 38 of the Constitution and the “Law on the Use and Control of Beaches” No. 26/93 stipulate that no one can prevent citizens from entering beaches, and no “Beach Entrance Fee” can be charged.
The statement also noted that the enforcement and supervision of this law is the responsibility of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, according to the Constitution. The statement further said:
“Despite this, the ministry neglects its duty and allows beach operators to prevent citizens from entering and to charge exorbitant fees. Our Confederation informs the Ministry of Internal Affairs that preventing citizens from entering the beaches is against constitutional and legal rights and constitutes a crime. We urge the ministry to fulfil its duties.
“Our Confederation highlights to consumers that they should submit vouchers, receipts, and payment documents for any illegal beach service fees they incur during the summer season to request refunds from the beach operators.
“The Minister of Internal Affairs is held accountable for the illegal fees, which cause financial grievances for consumers at the beaches. Dursun Oğuz emphasises that our Confederation insists on individual reimbursement to each consumer under the “Good Administration Law.”
“Our Confederation will initiate necessary legal proceedings based on consumer applications to the “Consumer Arbitration Committee,” independently established within the “Ministry of Economy and Energy” under the “Consumer Protection Law””.
