Long-anticipated lobbyist registry coming into force in Saskatchewan

Lobbyist registry launches in Saskatchewan Companies and individuals attempting to influence the Saskatchewan government now have to register as lobbyists

Companies and individuals attempting to influence the Saskatchewan government now have to register as lobbyists.

A website has been launched so the public can see a list of people who work to influence all politicians and civil servants on behalf of organizations or groups.

Conflict of interest commissioner Ray Barclay, who has been appointed as lobbyist registrar, says it's all about transparency.

Barclay says lobbyists will have to disclose any time they ask for something -- be it in an official meeting, during a round of golf with a government official or even in a text message.

The Lobbyists Act does not apply to universities, First Nations, municipalities and volunteer and non-profit organizations.

Premier Brad Wall said in December 2011 that a lobbyist registry was long overdue, but legislation wasn't passed until April 2014.