NDP MP calls for investigation into lobbying firm with ties to top Conservative adviser

A New Democrat MP is asking the federal lobbying commissioner to investigate what he calls «potentially inappropriate lobbying activities» by top Conservative strategist Jenni Byrne.

On Thursday, the Globe and Mail reported that a federal lobbying firm is located at the same office — and employs many of the same staff — as Jenni Byrne & Associates, a provincial lobbying firm. NDP MP Charlie Angus sent a letter to Commissioner of Lobbying Nancy Bélanger calling for a probe of the relationship between the two firms.

«We are writing to you today regarding our concerns about potentially inappropriate lobbying activities by Jenni Byrne,» Angus wrote in the letter.

«Given Ms. Byrne's advisory role and close relationship to (Conservative Leader Pierre) Poilievre and the Conservative caucus, Canadians deserve clarity on her lobbying activities.»

Although Byrne's exact role with the Conservative Party is murky — neither she nor the party will confirm how she is involved — she is viewed as one of the most powerful Conservative strategists in Canada.

She has been seen walking into caucus meetings — spaces typically reserved for elected members, Conservative senators and the most senior staff.

Forecheck Strategies was incorporated the first business day after Pierre Poilievre was elected Conservative Party leader in September 2023.

In addition to employing many of the same staff as Jenni Byrne + Associates, it is owned by Andrew Kimber and Simon Jefferies, who are also part-owners of Jenni Byrne + Associates.

Some lobbyists listed as working for Forecheck Strategies on the federal lobbying database are listed as employees on the website of Jenni Byrne + Associates, but not on the website of Forecheck Strategies.

There are other similarities