Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The first two reporting deadlines for those who have lobbied designated public officials have now passed. Those who undertook any lobbying since 1 September 2015 were required to register and submit returns of their lobbying activity on the online register. I am very pleased with the level of compliance achieved in these initial return periods. There are currently more than 1,300 organisations and individuals who have registered and almost 4,500 returns have been submitted to the register. The information available on the register provides the public with unprecedented insight into the role that lobbying plays in contributing to policy and funding discussions and decisions. Communications between the political systems, public service and all sectors of society will be supported and strengthened by this register, leading to better informed policy and decision making. The overall level of compliance is a very positive indicator that there is an acceptance of the need for openness and transparency in lobbying. It is clear that the work undertaken by my Department and the Standards in Public Office Commission in building awareness and understanding of the Regulation of Lobbying Act has been effective and I am confident that this momentum will be maintained as this work continues.

Currently, Part 4 of the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015, which relates to enforcement provisions, has not been commenced. This was a deliberate decision made to allay any concerns that stakeholders may have had about inadvertent non-compliance with the provisions of the Act and to allow those lobbying a period of time to become familiar with their legal obligations and the registration system. Given the success of the system, and the high levels of compliance, it would be my intention to commence these provisions early next year.

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