Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 October 2022
53. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of persons within his Department who are working remotely on a part-time or full-time basis in County Clare in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48733/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder Ag Obair Le Chéile – a comprehensive action plan for 2022 arising from our Statement of Strategy Le Chéile 23 - my Department is committed to developing its' organisational capacity and investing in staff to ensure they are equipped to meet future challenges. Embracing and implementing a Blended Working policy is part of my Department's key strategic actions and represents an opportunity to transform how the Department works and delivers results. It is envisaged that blended working will facilitate and drive the Department and staff to deliver on the Department's vision as set out in our Statement of Strategy Le Chéile 23 for a climate neutral, sustainable, and digitally connected Ireland. My Department’s formal blended working policy was developed in line with the Civil Service Framework for Blended Working and sets out blended working arrangements at minimum 2 days per week or 40% overall monthly office attendance, depending on business needs as determined by the Head of Function. The formal policy was launched in July 2022, and the application process has commenced 1st September 2022. All staff can apply, however, my Department has assessed the suitability for blended working of all roles in our organisation and identified a small number of roles where blended working is not feasible and staff will be required to work fully on site. In general, fully remote working is not available unless under medical or reasonable accommodation needs, in line with medical guidance. To ensure the health and safety of all staff when working from home and in the office, a process has been put in place for all staff applying for blended working to ensure their remote workstation meets the health and safety requirements set out in the Department’s policy. Blended working arrangements are also supported by comprehensive training, guidance, and communications.
