Ireland strengthens remote working code after review finds low awareness

Ireland’s Workplace Relations Commission has been instructed to revise its code of practice on remote working following a statutory review published by Ministers Burke and Dillon on March 5. The review found that while 94% of remote work requests are approved by employers, fewer than half of employees are aware the right to request exists.

The revised code will require employers to give comprehensive, transparent reasons when refusing remote work requests, with clearer templates for employees making applications. The Department of Enterprise has also announced an awareness campaign to ensure workers know about their rights under the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023.

The timing is notable given that Forsa, one of Ireland’s largest trade unions, has simultaneously criticised the legislation as “a lame duck,” with deputy general secretary Eamonn Donnelly arguing the union prefers collective bargaining over reliance on legislation. Forsa is currently in dispute with the Department of Social Protection over plans to bring approximately 500 of its 7,000 staff back to the office a second day per week.