Lobbying Legislation Introduced

The Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015 (the "Lobbying Act"), which came into effect on 1 September 2015, introduces new registration and disclosure obligations for those involved in lobbying activities in Ireland. The purpose of the Lobbying Act is to increase transparency around lobbying activities and make information publicly available on those communicating with elected representatives and senior public officials on specific policy, legislative matters or decisions relating to expenditure of public funds ("relevant matters") by way of a publicly accessible online register of lobbying. Those involved in such lobbying activities on relevant matters will have until 21 January 2016 to register as a lobbyist.