Ireland: Work-Life Balance Act of 4 April 2023

On 7 March 2024, the government gave its approval for the right to request remote and flexible working arrangements, as provided for by the Work-Life Balance Act of 4 April 2023. With this in mind, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has published a Code of Practice for Employers and Employees. All employees are now entitled to apply to work remotely. Parents and employees looking after children or family members who need to be cared for, are also entitled to request flexible working. The reasons mentioned by the guide for requesting a switch to remote working include: reducing the carbon footprint, neurodiversity and particular medical needs requiring a calm working environment. Being in breach of the code is not an offence, but this can be invoked where a complaint is lodged with the WRC, alleging a breach of these new rights (see press release). The ICTU trade union confederation has welcomed this code (see press release).