This Bill introduces several measures to enhance the integrity of Government decision-making by extending the Register of Lobbyists to include registered professional lobbyists acting on behalf of third parties, services firms, and lobbyists acting on behalf of businesses and industry bodies ('in house lobbyists').
The bill should be supported because it enhances democratic governance by promoting transparency and accountability in government decision-making. By requiring comprehensive disclosures of lobbying activities, it helps to ensure that decisions are made in the public interest and not unduly influenced by private interests. The publication of ministerial diaries and enforcement of a longer cooling-off period for former government officials helps to mitigate conflicts of interest, thereby strengthening public trust in government institutions. These measures collectively aim to address the public's concerns about the integrity of the political system and reduce the perception of corruption [Judgment].
The bill should be opposed because it imposes excessive regulatory burdens on lobbyists and could potentially infringe on their freedom of expression and right to participate in public affairs. The stringent registration and reporting requirements may deter individuals and organizations from engaging in legitimate advocacy and political discourse. Additionally, the bill's measures might be seen as an overreach of government authority, impacting the rights of private entities to conduct business and interact with government representatives. This could lead to a chilling effect on lobbying activities, which are a legitimate part of the democratic process [Judgment].
2024-11-18
Not Proceeding
RYAN, Monique, MP
Unspecified
Anti-Corruption, Democratic Institutions, Discrimination / Human Rights