VAT charges ambush backfires

THE high-handed action of Bord Gáis in imposing higher VAT charges before they were due, amounts to nothing other than sharp practice.

The company applied the new rate of 13.5% to bills for the November-December period, even though it was not due to become effective until January 1.

Now, because of consumers’ reaction, they have had the embarrassment of having to apply to the Revenue Commissioners to take corrective action for something they should not have done in the first place.