THE Irish Bankers' Federation has criticised legislation to monitor bank charges, due to be introduced on May 1st.

Complying with the Consumer Credit Act is a "huge operation" according to Mr Jim Bardon, director general of the federation. "In addition, we are the only European country where bank charges are controlled. The problem is that the Irish banking industry will be burdened with legislation which its European competitors do not have to comply with. That will make us more uncompetitive."

Speaking at the introduction of a guide to consumer credit Mr Bardon also condemned the £25,000 fee which the banks will have to pay to change their charges. "The £25,000 looks as if it was plucked from the air," he said. "It looks as though there is no basis for it."

But full implementation of the Act on May 1st looks impossible as the Civil and Public Service Union (CPSU) has not withdrawn its refusal to redeploy staff to implement it.

The union has set a ballot for mid May in its continuing dispute over pay and conditions.

Earlier this week, the Director of Consumer Affairs, Mr Willie Fagan, said he would be unable to police the act if the necessary 26 staff could not be redeployed to his office.

The banks have also introduced a free guide for consumers on their new rights. The booklet, "Shopping for Credit", is available from the Irish Banks Information Service (IBIS), or from bank branches.

IBIS also pointed to the ever increasing personal credit market as evidence for the need for the booklet. Over 100,000 copies have been printed.

The service has also produced a bank briefing on the principal features of the Act, designed for business teachers. But copies are available for anyone who wants a detailed overview of the Act.