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Proposed Legislation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2014

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

Questions (444)

Seán Kyne

Question:

444. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the drafting of the regulation of lobbying legislation; when it is expected to be published; when the regulatory structures contained within will be in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14194/14]

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Written answers

The Government's decision to proceed with the Regulation of Lobbying Bill 2014 marked a significant step in bringing greater openness to the important process of interaction between the political and administrative systems and all sectors of society who seek to influence specific policy, legislative matters or prospective decisions. 

The General Scheme of the Regulation of Lobbying Bill 2014 was submitted for pre-legislative scrutiny to the Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform Committee (FPER) and their report has been received by my Department.  Drafting of the Bill by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel is advancing and it is anticipated that the Bill will be published following Government approval in quarter two of 2014.  Following publication it is intended to establish an Advisory Group composed of relevant experts and key stakeholders who will be in a position to provide information and guidance that will assist in the smooth implementation of the legislation.  A period of time will be required prior to commencement of the legislation to enable development of the IT and information systems which will support the registration process. The timeframe for the regulatory provisions of the Bill to come into operation will depend, in the first instance, on the timeframe for the enactment of the Bill by the Oireachtas following Government approval for its publication.    

By regulating lobbying activity through registration and reporting requirements  public confidence in politics and in the business of government can be strengthened and greater transparency can be achieved regarding the process of public policy making.

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