Vol. 557 No. 1
142 Mr. Timmins asked the Taoiseach the number of lobby groups or public relations firms he or his Department has met with to discuss issues of impending legislation since the formation of the Government; the issues on which they lobbied; if this lobbying resulted in changes or amendments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21640/02]
I assume that the reference to lobby groups is to groups which have been set up primarily for the purpose of lobbying on an issue or issues and does not include social partners, sectoral groups, voluntary organisations and the like who engage with Government on a wide range of issues, some of which may relate to proposed legislation.
Since the formation of the Government, I have not had any formal meetings with lobby groups or public relations firms to discuss pending legislation nor have any of my political advisers.
I point out, however, that in the course of attending official functions all over the country I am approached by many individuals about various issues to do with Government. In many instances, I would not know these people nor would I be informed of what, if any, organisation they represent. That said, I do not recall any such approach from any member of a lobby group or public relations representative in relation to pending legislation since June last.
