asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the ESB have increased from 2½ per cent to 5 per cent the turnover tax on electricity accounts; if so, from what date the increase applies; and on what authority the increase was made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - ESB Electricity Charges.
12.
The rate of turnover tax is settled by the Finance Acts.
The ESB carried the turnover tax as a general charge from its introduction in 1964 at the rate of 2½ per cent until it was raised to 5 per cent in April, 1971; and the ESB then specifically charged the increase on consumers' bills. From and including the February/March 1971 billing period, the board, as part of their revised rates of charge published by them in press notices on 7/1/1971, collect from the consumers the full turnover tax charge of 5 per cent.
13.
Mr. O'Leary
asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he expects any further increase in ESB charges during the remainder of this year.
The ESB stated at a press conference on 27th May that they consider it necessary to have further increases in their rates of charge. The matter is under consideration and an announcement may be expected shortly.
Mr. O'Leary
Is the board having consultations with the Minister regarding the proposed increase?
The Government are considering this matter in their usual way.
In other words, the Government are considering whether to give permission for a proposed increase?
The Government always consider the applications for increases in charges of electricity.