Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

That particular one was ruled out of order. However, I am speaking especially to amendment No. 2. I am proposing in amendment No. 2 that there would be a further amendment to section 12 of the principal Act. A requirement should be contained in the legislation, especially where a lobbyist is operating in the political arena, to declare fees that are earned or payments that are made. I raise the issue of former members of this House because of the whole grey area that surrounds that. If lobbyists were required to provide the details of fees or payments they receive at least, it would create a greater awareness of the potential for conflict of interest or inappropriate access by former Members. That is why I am bringing that issue in. Anybody who is involved in lobbying should be required to provide full disclosure of fees that are paid or payments that are made.

If we are serious about transparency in this area, the Minister will support the amendment. Of course, this matter was also raised during pre-legislative scrutiny by Transparency International Ireland but, regrettably, it was not taken on board by the Minister. Will he give serious consideration to amending the Bill in the name of full clarity and openness in order that we will know who is receiving fees or payments for the work they are doing?

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