An advice centre for consumers, The European Consumer Centre, on O'Connell Street, Dublin, is offering a free small claims litigation advice service from March 31st. An adviser provides information and guidance on processing claims and assistance on preparing for court proceedings. This function was formerly provided by the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs.

The European Consumer Centre offers independent, confidential advice on consumer rights. It received more than 5,100 queries in 1998 and 2,000 queries in the first two months of this year. The majority of complaints related to the purchase of a faulty product or inadequate service. The centre is open from Monday to Friday, 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tel: 01 809 0600 or Fax: 01 809 0601.