Bank of Ireland announced before Christmas it was abolishing all cross-border handling charges on credit cards used within the euro zone from January 1st. This week the bank has clarified its position, pointing out it should have stated at the time of the announcement the charge is only being abolished for a minimum 12-month period.

Mr Billy Saunderson, head of credit card services, wrote to The Irish Times to point out the omission this week. After the minimum 12-month period, this policy will be reviewed "in the light of the bank's ability to provide a viable service on this basis".

Mr Saunderson said the bank's principal motivation for the concession during 1999 is to support and assist familiarity with the euro during the first year of its existence.