Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The original aim of the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015 was to make the process more transparent and accountable. It has failed to reach that threshold by a country mile. It has been said to me on countless occasions by smaller groups and activists that it could reasonably be argued that the Act was designed to ensure they are penalised disproportionately compared to professional lobbyists in an effort to keep their voices the quietest in the room – often they are not even in the room.

The lobbying Act is not fit for purpose and must be updated and amended to ensure there is real oversight of lobbyists beyond signing generic codes of conduct that include non-defined statements such as "avoiding improper influence". Describing it as regulation of lobbying implies that there is actual regulation and full transparency not only in respect of those who are doing the lobbying but also those on whose behalf they are lobbying. It implies that there are substantive consequences for non-compliance and that those who are not in compliance are held accountable.

There is a world of difference between lobbying and engagement. The Act should have been an effective mechanism to enable citizens and organisations to make their views on public policy known and on an equal basis. It should have been that way, but the public perception of lobbying is that it is a mechanism for big business which has access to the highest public offices and legislators in the land to progress their interests. It is a 21st century version of the old Punchcartoons that depicted the cosy relationship between Governments and industrial interests in the early 20th century.

I have real concerns, which are reflected by my constituents, regarding the cooling-off period of 12 months.

It is simply not sufficient to stop this perceived revolving door between politicians elected to represent the public and lobbyists employed to represent private corporations. That well-oiled highway is failing the people and needs to come to an end. It undermines confidence in politics and public trust in these Houses.

See this speech in context