National telecommunications commission, NATCOM has ended its second consumer parliament in Makeni, a forum which brought together operators and consumers to discuss issues that affect the telecom industry in the country and the way forward.

NATCOM's chairman, Siray Timbo said consumers must be treated with utmost respect by operators, adding, "There is lack of communication between the consumers and the operators."

The ultimate goal of the institution, according to him, was to get a regulatory balance which was acceptable by the consumers, operators and others concern.

"The commission has recorded several achievements among which are, the establishment of six zonal offices and the formation of cyber crime," he said.

Timbo noted that it was the utmost responsibility of the commission to ensure that operators give out correct information to consumers about their services.

A member of the parliamentary oversight committee on information and communication, Hon. Victoria K. Sesay said the idea of a consumer parliament by NATCOM was timely and important.

She said there was need to lay more emphasis on consumer satisfaction, as it was the backbone of success for operators in the industry.

"We will welcome any idea that puts emphasis on consumer satisfaction. We are well aware of the provision in the telecom's Act," she said.

Deputy minister of information and communications, Saidata Sesay said such a forum was important as it gives consumers the opportunity to ask relevant questions to the operators on issues that affect them.

She admonished operators to continue to work in the interest of providing quality telecommunication services to the people.