The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) yesterday published the statutory review of Ireland’s remote work request provisions under the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023.

The review found that 94 per cent of employees’ requests are approved, either fully or in part, while employers across all sectors have reported a low administrative burden associated with the law.

However, it also found that use and awareness of the right to request flexible and remote working remains low, particularly in rural areas, and knowledge of the WRC code of practice is lower still.

Enterprise, tourism and employment minister Peter Burke said: “The review shows that when employees and employers engage with the legislative framework, it works — supporting flexibility and improved work life balance.

“Remote work has the potential to open up opportunities far beyond our major cities, and it is vital that people in every part of the country understand the rights available to them.

“The recommendations within the report will ensure that the right to request remote work is transparent and understood by both employers and employees, contributing to an attractive labour market and a competitive, future‑focused business environment.”

Alan Dillon, minister for small business, retail and employment, said: “Remote working is now a fundamental part of how Ireland works.

“This review clearly shows that when employees use their right to request remote working, it delivers, with over 90 per cent of requests approved in full or in part. This is the kind of balanced, practical flexibility that we want to see nationwide.

“But it also tells us that too many people are still not aware that the right exists. A national awareness campaign will help ensure workers and employers across the country to become aware and understand that the right exists.”

In addition to a targeted national information campaign, Mr Dillon will request the WRC to “revise and strengthen” the code of practice in order to:

• provide clearer templates and guidance for employees applying for remote work;
• support employers to give comprehensive and transparent reasons for decisions;
• clarify the timelines set out in the legislation; and
• support more structured consultation between employers and employees when considering remote work options and promote use of the WRC mediation services.