Former Politicians Must Observe "Cooling Off Period" Or Be Fined €25k

Tuesday, 15 February 2022 13:13

By Caoimhe Harney

Or face a two year lobbying ban.

The Public Expenditure Minister says tougher lobbying rules for former politicians should act as a strong deterrent.

Those who don't observe a 12-month "cooling off" period could face a two-year lobbying ban or a fine of 25 thousand euro.

It comes after former junior minister Michael D'Arcy resigned from the Seanad in 2020 to work for an investment industry lobby group.

Minister Michael McGrath says the changes being considered by cabinet today will address a gap in the law:

More from National News

Revealed: "No More Product Ever Going To Leave Ireland For Israel" Says Powell Electronics In Clane

In a further statement to Kfm, a spokesperson said: "There is no more product ever going to leave Ireland for Israel. This was the wish long held by us all here."
State CEOs Could Be In Line For Pay Rise As Cabinet Approves Salary Reform

Meanwhile, the Housing Minister is being accused of seeking a job share arrangement by establishing the new Housing Activation Office.
Shock As ISPCA Rescues 207 Animals From Cramped, Stressful And Unsanitary Conditions In Kildare

Among the animals rescued were 25 dogs - including four puppies - 95 rabbits, 58 guinea pigs, 22 hamsters, four mice, a corn snake, a slider terrapin, and a musk turtle.
Locals Protest Outside Powell Electronics In Clane Over Alleged Link To Israeli Fighter Jets Supply Chain

The facility is understood to have supplied parts for the F-35 and F-16 fighter jets.
Since 2014, 235 Children In State Care Or Known To Tusla Have Died, Including 10 Murders, Says TD

Since 2021, Tusla have made referrals for 161 children to the Gardaí who were suspected of being victims of Child Sexual Exploitation. 115 of these children were in care, while 46 were "known to tusla".
New Military Radar To Detect Hostile And Hijacked Aircraft In Irish Airspace

Audio

The Tanaiste says he’s negotiating with four countries who will help develop the system, and he’ll decide to partner with one by October.
Judge’s Dismissal Of 30 Clogheen Speeding Cases Faces Legal Challenge

In December, Judge Andrew Cody dismissed the charges, criticising GoSafe speed vans for targeting a 60km/h zone he considered unfair, calling the enforcement “shooting fish in a barrel.”
Blackout Chaos: Airports, Traffic, And Sports Halted Across Spain And Portugal

It's affecting airports, tube stations and traffic lights, while play at the Madrid Open Tennis has been suspended.