Michael Moynihan
Question:62. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the steps his Department is taking to facilitate remote working; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11384/22]
View answerTuesday, 1 March 2022
Questions (62, 68)
Michael Moynihan
Question:68. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the targets for blended working in the civil service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11383/22]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 62 and 68 together.
In July, 2021 the Government approved a Policy Statement on Blended Working in the Civil Service which is in line with the Programme for Government commitment mandating public sector employers to move to 20% home and remote working. The Policy Statement commits the Civil Service to implementing a policy of blended working for the future that can provide flexibility to both employees and their employers in a manner that supports the continued delivery of high quality services to Government, the public and business while providing employees, where appropriate, with choice and opportunity.
Remote working in the Civil Service, post COVID, will be facilitated on a blended basis. In this context, my Department continues to work with employers across the Civil and Public Service to develop a Blended Working Policy Framework for the Civil Service. This Framework focuses on the longer-term approach to remote working in the sector and can assist in providing a consistent approach across the wider public sector.
It is anticipated that the Blended Working Policy Framework will be finalised shortly, following conclusion of the engagement with employee representatives. Once finalised, the Framework will be rolled out to all civil service organisations and will inform the development of organisational blended working policies which will be tailored to meet the specific requirements of each Department/Office. On completion, each Department/Office will progressively roll out their blended working policies and implementation plans.
In line with Government commitments, the Civil Service will demonstrate leadership in moving proactively to this new blended working environment with a view to achieving at least 20% remote working initially, depending on the needs of the business.
Questions No. 63 answered orally.