Dear Editor,

On Friday 8th February 2002, I ventured into GPL's Main street office to settle my electricity bill for two months, covering the period 12th November 2001 to 11th January 2002. To my dismay I discovered that the tariff used in the calculation of my payments was the new rate, which should have come into effect from 1st February 2002. I enquired from the clerk at the queries desk as to how this could be possible since the period for which I was being billed was over two months prior to the announced date from which the new increase should take effect. She however, unable to offer any explanation, could only say that the new rates were perhaps being applied retroactively. In disbelief, I asked to see her supervisor who to her credit was very polite, despite my state of exasperation. She basically confirmed what I was told by the clerk and was in no position to shed any further light on the matter.

Now how do I along with the thousands of Guyanese consumers who undoubtedly face the same problem seek redress in this matter? I am inclined not to pay, but then I will be summarily disconnected. I entreat the Government and consumer protection agencies to look into this problem.