Irish watchdog opposes government plan to enforce lobbying "cooling-off" periods, citing unworkability.

The Standards Commission (Sipo) in Ireland opposes the government's plan to task it with enforcing "cooling-off" periods for former politicians and public servants who become lobbyists. Sipo argues the plan is "unworkable" and could lead to high litigation risks. The Department of Public Expenditure, however, believes handling such cases criminally could discourage potential lobbyists. Despite Sipo's concerns, the government has not changed its position.