Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 July 2023
267. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to provide an update on the preparation of a Code of Practice by the Workplace Relations Commission under Part 4 of the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 to allow for the right to request remote and flexible working; when this right will be available to workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32526/23]
View answerWork on the development of the Code of Practice on the right to request remote work is ongoing. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) have recently held a public consultation, which was receiving submissions up until 9 June.
In total, the WRC received 50 submissions of foot of the public consultation, which are now being considered.
This Code, which will be developed in consultation with trade unions and employer representative bodies and the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, will set out practical guidance for both workers and employers on how to treat applications for remote working arrangements made under the Act.
The WRC will commence work on a draft Code in due course and will be consulting with representatives of employers and employees once that draft is prepared as required under legislation, to finalise the Code.
The right to request remote or flexible working provisions of the legislation will come into force as soon as practicable following the completion of this Code.
