Lost returns

Over the past month or so we have come across several instances of the Revenue 'losing' tax returns between the logging and processing stages. Having spoken to a customer service officer we are advised that in accordance with a new Revenue internal policy from mid-March onwards tax offices are being encouraged to follow up on lists of mislaid tax returns. The form of follow-up is by telephone in some cases and by letter in others. The wording of a typical letter received by us follows:

'I refer to your client's 2000-01 tax return received in January 2002.

'I regret that the return form has been mislaid without being processed and I would be grateful if you would supply a copy of the full return.

'If you do not hold a copy please let me know as it will be necessary for you...