Gas and electricity bills 'the hidden debt crisis from Covid lockdowns' as ban on disconnections ends   

Mabs has called for a new code of practice for distressed households in their dealings with utilities, including electricity and gas providers

The framework for dealing with utility bills in arrears could be similar to the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process, or Marp, that was developed by the Central Bank following the banking crisis 10 years ago, Mabs said.

The country's main household debt advisory organisation is warning that utility bills and PCP car finance loans are "the hidden household debt crisis" in the wake of the Covid-19 lockdowns.   

The Government-funded Money Advice and Budgeting Service, or Mabs, which provides independent advice to households, has also called for a new code of practice for distressed households in their dealings with utilities, including electricity and gas providers.