I propose to take Questions Nos. 86 and 87 together.
It is proposed to answer PQ 3248/24 and 3266/24 together.
My Department currently has a headcount of 647 (as of 22 January 2024). Following the publication of the Civil Service Blended Working Framework on 31 March 2022, my Department developed its own Blended Working Policy, which came into effect on 1 July 2022. This Policy facilitates flexible blended working arrangements for all eligible staff members on a pattern of up to a maximum of 5 remote days over two weeks, on a 2 days/3 days pattern, as determined by business needs. This equates to an average of 17.5 remote working hours per week. However, staff are expected to be flexible and attend the office on other days when there are particular business requirements, in addition to attending on anchor days which support team-working. Pro-rata arrangements are in place for work-sharing staff members.
The implementation of blended working has been supported by the development of team charters, communications and training to ensure that managers are equipped to manage this new way of working and are cognisant of training needs, fairness in allocating work, prioritising collaboration across and within teams etc., always delivering public value.
In general, over 85% of employees can avail of blended working arrangements. Due to the nature of work undertaken by my Department, some roles are unsuitable for blended working due to requirements for duties having to be carried out exclusively at the Department’s work premises.
My Department is in the final stages of developing a blended working application portal, which will be launched this year. Upon completion and launch, all staff wishing to continue availing of blended working arrangements will complete a formal blended working application.
I have referred your query to the agencies under the aegis of my Department and have asked the bodies to respond directly to you on this matter. If you do not hear from them within 10 days please contact my private office.
