Ontario Securities Commission Chairman David Brown today invited consumers of financial services to take part in an investor town hall on Tuesday, May 31.

The event, to be held in the CBC Atrium in downtown Toronto, is designed to provide an opportunity for dialogue between consumers and regulators, including the OSC, the Investment Dealers Association of Canada, the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada and the Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments.

Investors will learn how the current investor complaint and arbitration mechanisms work, and have the chance to suggest improvements to these systems.

“We are creating an opportunity for consumers of financial services to share their experiences – good and bad,” said Brown. “The voice of the retail investor – Main Street – is too often not heard by Bay Street. We want to correct that.”

A panel, to be moderated by the CBC’s Mike Hornbrook, will include David Brown, IDA President & CEO Joseph Oliver, Canadian Banking Ombudsman Michael Lauber, and MFDA President & CEO Larry Waite, as well as Small Investor Protection Association President Stan Buell. Each panelist will give brief remarks then take questions and comments from the audience.

“We look forward to an evening of lively commentary and commit to reporting back on our follow-through,” said Brown.

Admission is free. Investors are asked to arrive at 6:00 p.m. for refreshments and to visit exhibitor booths. Panelist remarks begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by an open forum until 8:00 p.m.

Investors can register in advance by calling 416-593-7744 or e-mailing townhall@osc.gov.on.ca.

For more information and to register online, click on the Investor Town Hall button at www.osc.gov.on.ca.