Govt Must Inform Consumers Of Potential Impact Of No-Deal Brexit

The government must immediately launch a campaign to inform consumers of the impact of a no-deal Bexit, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Brexit, Lisa Chambers TD, has said.

Deputy Chambers raised the issue over concerns of the potential for additional charges including import charges, duty and VAT, along with the costs in relation to returns for retailers.

She continued: "Many Irish people buy online from UK retailers and I am concerned that many are unaware of the impact that a no deal Brexit will have and the potential for additional charges. For example, Value Added Tax (VAT) is payable if the value of the items plus shipping is €22 or more and import charges such as customs or excise duties are payable on items valued at €150 or more that are purchased from outside the EU.

"Whilst the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation has informed me that the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is currently planning consumer market research with a view to an awareness campaign this Autumn on the potential changes to consumer rights as a result of Brexit, I believe that this process must be accelerated.

"We are less than a hundred days away from a potentially catastrophic no deal Brexit. It is concerning that Government continues to put practical preparations on the long finger. Time is running out and whilst the Government can hope for the best it is incumbent upon them to ensure that Ireland is prepared in as much as feasibly possible for the worst of all Brexit outcomes," concluded Deputy Chambers.

(MH/JG)