---

Tougher lobbying rules for policymakers

A statutory instrument that extends the lobbying register to cover several public bodies has been signed by Paschal Donohoe (Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Delivery and Reform).

The extension means that the lobbying of senior officials in bodies such as the Central Bank, Comreg, the National Transport Authority, and the Health Service Executive will now be covered by the register from 1 January 2025.

The department said that these officials had “significant policy-making or development functions”, and that lobbying that took place would now be reported on the same basis as central and local government.

Public information

“This measure will expand the range of officials who are covered by the legislation, and this means that more information will be available to the public,” said Minister Donohoe.

From 1 January, senior officials within the public bodies covered, with significant policy-making or development roles, will be required to advise lobbyists that they are Designated Public Officials (DPOs).

Any interactions with DPOs must be reported by lobbyists in accordance with the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015.

The 2015 act also provides that, in certain circumstances, public servants who are prescribed as DPOs are restricted from engaging in lobbying for a year after they leave their employment or office.