Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 4

Written Answers. - Flexi-Time Work.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

87 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the plans, if any, in place to increase the availability of flexible working hours within her Department and in agencies under its auspices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14010/99]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

Flexible working hours are available to executive, clerical and some professional/ technical grades in my Department.

In conjunction with both the Public Service Executive Union, representing executive grades, and the Civil and Public Services Union, representing clerical grades, it has recently been agreed to extend the flexible hours to cover an 8.00 a.m. start and a 7.00 p.m. finish each day. This is being run on a six month pilot basis and will be monitored and reviewed before a decision is made as to whether it should become a permanent feature.

Regarding the flexible working hours operating in agencies for which my Department has responsibility, I have no function in relation to this matter as it is a day-to-day matter for the companies-agencies themselves.