Use of bills for €100 charge 'disturbing'

Updated: 14:23, Thursday, 5 January 2012

The Data Protection Commissioner says the proposed use of information from utility bills for the collection of the household charge is disturbing.

1 of 1Billy Hawkes not happy with plan to use utility bills as part of collection of household charge
Billy Hawkes not happy with plan to use utility bills as part of collection of household charge

The Data Protection Commissioner has described as a ''disturbing development'' the proposed use of information from utility bills for the collection of the new household charge.

Billy Hawkes said the move represented an extension of the powers of the State. He said he hoped that the use of any information from ESB or other bills should be minimal.

Owners of residential properties must pay the €100 charge by March 31.

An online system - www.householdcharge.ie - has been set up allowing home owners to register their households and to make payment with a credit or debit card. Payment can also be made by cheque, postal order or at local authority offices.

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