Press conference on toy safety in Montenegro was organized in EU Info Centre

PODGORICA, July 11, 2017 – In Montenegro, children are now safer from harmful chemicals and other risks in toys due to the alignment with EU legislation and better controls based on EU methodology. This was concluded at a press conference on toy safety in Montenegro, which was held today at the EU Info Centre.

“Many say that the EU integration process deals with technical issues, with little everyday relevance. The truth is: although they seem distant, EU measures are aimed at improving the lives of citizens. And some bring very visible results daily. Toy safety measures show that even babies can benefit from EU integration”, said EU Ambassador to Montenegro Aivo Orav.

He added that the work of the inspection authorities and the civil society efforts in the area of consumer protection are important milestones in this regard.

Presenting the results of their work, Deputy Director of the Administration for Inspection Affairs of Montenegro, Višnja Orban said that from the entry into force of the regulation on toy safety, aligned with relevant European Commission’s directive, in July 2015 until March 2017, 2399 pieces of 18 different hazardous toys were withdrawn from the local market. The highest health risks posed those containing phthalates, chemicals that can be found in soft PVC, a type of plastic used in toys that can have toxic effects on liver, kidneys and reproductive system, and can also cause hormonal disorders.

She added that dangerous toys found in stores are being destroyed, and if already sold, they are being recalled. Revocation notices are published in the media and on the website potrosac.me. So far, there were 1179such toys. The conference was also attended by the President of the Consumer Protection Centre (CEZAP), Olga Nikčević and the director of the NGO Parents, Kristina Mihailović, who pointed out how important it is for citizens to be informed about the risks and the mechanisms of protection and control.

The conference marked the beginning of an information campaign on toy safety implemented by the EU Info Centre in cooperation with the national inspection authorities. Within the campaign, an information leaflet with important information on toy safety mechanisms in Montenegro was produced, which will be distributed to toy stores, kindergartens and schools.