Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I never thought we were that bad but the Minister gets the point I am making. What we have seen in the past week has shattered some people's confidence. Some people had a low opinion of politics to start with. Their confidence was not shattered but those people who had a decent interpretation of ethics in politics felt let down. We need a proper and full registration of lobbying Bill, not what is before the House. A great deal needs to be included in this legislation and if the Minister accepts our amendments, we will have good legislation that will be fit for purpose.

I seek clarification on a number of points.

If there is lobbying on broader issues then this should be included. The Minister might clarify where the other social partners fit in. He made a reference to the IFA, IBEC, charities, voluntary groups, sporting organisations and organisations helping the homeless. Groups are set up around the country and might have to hire a legal person if they are opposing a wind farm or organising a campaign to save the local post office. People are afraid they could be trapped by this legislation. Some of the organisations have well over ten paid staff.

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