16 lobbyists personally met with federal officials more than 100 times each this year, data shows

More than 80% of the busiest consultants in Ottawa used to work in the government

Carly Penrose
Carly is a Toronto-based journalist. She holds a master of journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University. Her work has appeared in the National Post, This Magazine and The Canadian Press.
More posts by Carly Penrose.

Carly Penrose

26 December, 2024 • 5 min read

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A man in a grey suit and patterned tie stands behind a microphone in front of a backdrop with the words NATIONAL DEFENCE

David Pratt, who served as a Liberal minister of national defence in 2004, was among the busiest lobbyists in Ottawa, according to federal lobbying communications reports. (The Canadian Press/Simon Hayter)

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He's been out of politics for 20 years, but former Liberal defence minister David Pratt is still in touch with senior government officials most days.

It isn't just friendly chit-chat. Pratt is a paid lobbyist, working for a dozen companies seeking to influence policies or win contracts in Ottawa. Like all consultant lobbyists, he is required by law to report his contacts.

16 lobbyists personally met with federal officials more than 100 times each this year, data shows

Carly Penrose

Carly Penrose

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