Skip to main content
Normal View

Flexible Work Practices

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021

Thursday, 9 September 2021

Questions (485)

Carol Nolan

Question:

485. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Defence the measures he is taking to promote or facilitate remote working for staff in his Department or bodies under the aegis of his Department; the costs this has generated in terms of the provision of laptops, desktop computers or contributions to wi-fi costs or phone-related expenses; the number of staff who have applied for permission to work from home on a permanent or hybrid-model basis (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41948/21]

View answer

Written answers

Departments and Offices are currently working in line with Government COVID-19 guidance, which provides for home working to continue where possible. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department, in line with other civil and public service organisations, has adhered to public health advice and to the Guidance for Public Service Employers published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. This has meant employees working from home, but also attending the workplace to carry out essential work that cannot be discharged from home.

A central policy framework for Blended Working in the Civil Service will be finalised in conjunction with employee representatives over the coming months. This framework will inform the development of organisation level blended working policies tailored to the specific requirements of each Department or Office, whilst ensuring a consistency of approach across key policy areas. Once the framework is finalised, my Department will develop a policy, appropriate to the business needs of the organisation. An assessment of all elements of such an approach will be undertaken as part of that process.

Top
Share