Mr. Martin Bourke:

Our clients and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, in association with us, are devising a centralised policy on remote working. It will dramatically change the model through which each client delivers its services. Depending on how that work plays out, it is the OPW's intention to partner with each client to determine the specific needs that arise in terms of location, property, etc. We have a large portfolio around the country, so I will caution against the idea that we would necessarily get additional properties. We must ensure that all of our properties, be they in the city centre, outer suburbs or regions, are fully optimised and fully support our clients' business needs. If there is a requirement to establish any other form of property or to get into sharing arrangements with local authorities and so on, we are up for that. We have had a number of conversations on this matter with local authorities in particular.

The situation is evolving and this is an exciting time. It will provide many opportunities for staff motivation and greater efficiency, including in tax savings. However, the work is complicated and will be led by central policy. We will support that in every way possible. I take the Deputy's point about the outer suburbs.