Clarification on Lawyers, Negotiators, and Other Contractors for First Nation Government

Interpretation:

The Lobbyist Act

s. 4(1) This Part does not apply to a person who is a member of any of the following classes of persons, when acting in their official capacity:

(h) members of First Nation governments, and their employees;

This provision identifies an exemption from registering as a lobbyist if a member of First Nation governments or their employees conduct business or activities that otherwise would fall within the definition of lobbying.

 

Summary:  Lawyers, negotiators and other contractors who lobby on behalf of a First Nation government are not exempt from registering. These entities are not members of a First Nation government, nor are they employees. Accordingly, these entities do not fall within the exemption provision and are therefore required to register as lobbyists.