Ireland Update: Strategy On Remote Working Strives To Keep Up

Introduction

Ireland's Department of Trade, Enterprise and Employment ("Department") recently published a strategy paper outlining its vision for remote working entitled "Making Remote Work - National Remote Work Strategy" ("Remote Working Strategy"). The Remote Working Strategy confirms the Government's intention to legislate for employees to have a right to request remote working.

While recognising the many benefits of remote working where appropriate, the Remote Working Strategy outlines in some detail the negative consequences of remote working, including its potential impact on productivity, employee isolation and the reduced ability for employees to switch off. The Department appears to acknowledge that remote working will not be feasible or positive in all circumstances.