Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
98. Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the range of supports that will be put in place to support remote working; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16126/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs our country approaches a new normal, remote work is more important than ever. If implemented correctly, it can stimulate regional growth, support the transition to a greener economy, reduce business costs and improve employees’ work-life balance.
However, for this to be possible, the necessary supports must be in place for business and employees to reap its benefits. This is reflected in research undertaken by my Department on Remote Work in Ireland in December 2019. This report outlined the prevalence and types of remote working in Ireland. It also identified the influencing factors for both employers and employees.
A key outcome identified in the Remote Work in Ireland report was the need for official guidance for employers and employees on a variety of different topics, such as equality, health and safety, employment conditions and the right to disconnect, data protection and training. My Department is now working to deliver this guidance with a dedicated Interdepartmental Group comprising of all relevant Departments and Agencies.
While this work is under way, my Department has a webpage which allows employers and employees to easily navigate the existing guidance on remote working. This webpage is a central access point for all of the Government guidance currently available on remote working.
Amid the COVID19 pandemic, many of us have had to adjust to working remotely with minimal preparation. To gain insights from employers and employees on their key areas of concern, my Department has launched a public consultation on remote working guidance. The submissions will allow us to identify areas where further guidance can be provided and will also shape future remote working policy. I encourage all interested parties to take part in this consultation, the full details of which can be found on my Department’s website.
Following the results of this consultation, my Department will use the insights and feedback arising from the submissions to further refine the current remote working guidance. This work will be completed before the end of 2020.
