Social Democrats seek new laws to govern lobbyists

Roisin Shortall accused the Government of showing zero enthusiasm for reforms

The Social Democrats want new laws introduced to make lobbying activities more open and government decisions more accountable.

The party says this is a direct response to what they have described as "highly inappropriate contacts" between the Minister for Communications Denis Naughten and a lobbyist for Independent News and Media.

Co-party leader Roisin Shortall accused the Government of showing zero enthusiasm for reforms in this area.

The party is seeking to "name and shame" lobbyists who contravene the law and to have a statutory code of conduct for the sector.