A new online lobbyist registry is now up and running in Saskatchewan.
The registry is touted by the province as allowing Saskatchewan residents to be able to search for individuals and organizations who are lobbying public office holders. Information about the registry is now available at www.sasklobbyistregistry.ca.
It is part of the changes stemming from the province’s new Lobbyists Act.
“The Lobbyists Act is now in effect, which reflects our commitment to ongoing transparency and accountability,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Gordon Wyant said in a statement.
Under the Act, individuals paid to lobby elected Saskatchewan officials on behalf of organizations or groups are required to register their lobbying activities online.
“It is important for citizens to know who is lobbying the government and the Lobbyist Registry will disclose that information,” said Wyant.
There are some exemptions from the Act. Those acting in official capacities on behalf of certain organizations such as municipalities or other governments, may be exempt. The same is true for unpaid individuals such as volunteers or members of the public pursuing personal interests with MLAs.
It’s also been announced that Conflict of Interest commissioner Ron Barclay has been appointed as Registrar
