Irish lobbying laws to be strengthened
Reading time: 1 minute
Michael McGrath
Legislation strengthening the regulatory framework for lobbying in Ireland has been published.
The Regulation of Lobbying (Amendment) Bill 2022 will allow the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) to impose a fine of up to €25,000 and/or a ban on lobbying of up to two years for breaches of the “cooling-off” period included in the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015.
The bill will improve the operation and functionality of the Lobbying Register and strengthen the existing legislation and its enforcement.
Michael McGrath, the minister for public expenditure and reform, said: “The publishing today of the Regulation of Lobbying (Amendment) Bill 2022 marks a significant step forward in the regulation of lobbying in Ireland.
“Lobbying is a vital component in maintaining a healthy and well-functioning democracy. However, transparency is critically important in order to allow citizens to follow the activities and potential influence of interest groups, representative bodies and industry and civil society organisations on policy and funding discussions and decisions.
“This legislation will further strengthen Ireland’s lobbying laws, incorporating the learnings of the last six years.”
The bill is expected to be introduced in the Oireachtas in the autumn.
Share this article:
Subscribe to our newsletter to not miss articles like this one:
SUBSCRIBE
