Tax office fines pierogi restaurant 500 zloty for water bottle sale, sparks criticism

A restaurant in Szczecin faced a 500 zloty fine for selling a bottle of water without providing a receipt. The incident, which occurred just before the establishment's reopening in a new location, sparked public outcry. The restaurant detailed the situation on its Facebook page, explaining that a tax official requested water shortly before the new premises were officially open and the cash register was operational. Despite the circumstances, the sale was made, resulting in the fine.

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We are opposed to all manifestations of harassment, insult, slander, and public attack against officers and employees of the National Revenue Administration (...), who perform their duties professionally, in accordance with applicable law and in the interest of the State Treasury and all citizens.

The head of the National Revenue Administration, Marcin Łoboda, responded to the criticism by defending his employees. He issued a statement condemning any form of harassment or public attack against tax officials performing their duties professionally and legally. Łoboda emphasized that tax controls are not provocations but are designed to prevent legal violations, eliminate unfair competition, and combat the grey economy. He argued that questioning the integrity of tax officials undermines state institutions.

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Controls conducted by the National Revenue Administration are not provocations or actions aimed at honest entrepreneurs. Their purpose is to counteract violations of the law, eliminate unfair competition, combat the grey economy, and protect those entrepreneurs who conduct their business in accordance with regulations and fulfill their obligations reliably.

Łoboda expressed full support for his staff and voiced his disapproval of the online harassment they faced. The Northern Chamber of Commerce in Szczecin also commented, stressing the importance of entrepreneurs adhering to regulations for fair competition. However, they also highlighted the need for state bodies to apply the law reasonably and proportionally, considering specific circumstances like seasonal business operations or allowing entrepreneurs a chance to explain potential irregularities. The chamber suggested the pierogi restaurant case underscores the need for a balance between effective control and a partnership approach with businesses.

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Questioning the credibility of KAS officers and employees solely because they perform their statutory tasks is an attack not only on their good name but also on the authority of state institutions.