Brussels, 10/12/2003 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has appointed Juan Riviere y Marti to the newly-created post of Consumer Liaison Officer within DG Competition. The Commission announced its decision to create such a post when reforms on control of mergers was adopted in December 2002. Mr Riviere y Marti's main job will be to set up permanent dialogue with European consumers, whose voice is not sufficiently heard when difference cases are being handled. He will be the point of contact between consumer organisations and the Commission, and will establish regular and intensified contact with these organisations. He will keep them informed about competition matters in which their opinion could be of use and, lastly, will work together with national competition authorities on issues related to consumer protection. A member of DG Competition since 1989, Mr Riviere y Marti was previously and advisor to the Policy Development and Co-ordination Directorate.