Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the question.

The focus of the climate action plan is on the sectors generating the major greenhouse gas emissions. These are agriculture, power generation, the energy use of buildings, transport, industrial processes and resource-use by all sectors. The plan has identified the policies that can deliver change at least cost and offering most opportunity. More flexible work patterns can be a part of the strategy which individual bodies can consider as part of a climate plan, such as through remote working. The plan encourages public bodies and enterprise to consider the actions which can assist. The Government is committed through Future Jobs Ireland to developing and implementing a range of measures aimed at making participation in the workforce more flexible and, therefore, easing barriers to entry into the workforce. This includes measures aimed at intelligent working arrangements, such as the development of guidelines for employers on flexible working options; child care provision; reducing disincentives for those who wish to work longer; and targeting certain cohorts through the public employment service

The climate action plan recognises that the implementation of the national planning framework will help to underpin these measures by promoting development involving reduced travel distances and greater proximity to employment and services, which will enable a greater proportion of journeys by means of active travel. The successful roll-out of the national broadband plan will also stimulate remote working opportunities and increase the creation of local employment opportunities, which allows more people to work closer to their homes, reducing the emissions associated with longer commuter journeys.

Policy matters in regard to working hours falls under the remit of the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation.

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