Ireland's remote work request approval rate hits 94% but half of workers don't know the right exists

Ireland’s statutory review of the Work Life Balance Act 2023 remote work provisions has found that 94% of requests are approved, either in full or in part, with minimal administrative burden on employers. However, only 48% of Irish employees are aware the right to request remote work exists.

Why this matters: The high approval rate suggests the legislation is working as intended, but the awareness gap means many workers who could benefit are not making requests. A national awareness campaign will launch in 2026, and the WRC Code of Practice will be strengthened with clearer templates, more detailed refusal explanations, and structured internal appeals processes. Meanwhile, Labour, Forsa, and the National Women’s Council are pushing for an enforceable right to remote work — not just a right to request — arguing the current framework is a “toothless tiger” after only 1 of 72 WRC complaints was upheld.

Ireland’s approach contrasts with the UK, where similar flexible working legislation is being strengthened through the Employment Rights Act 2025, with a public consultation on the new refusal process closing on April 29, 2026.