Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It has been said time and again that remote working is one of the big takeaways of Covid. We have seen its great benefits. The necessary technology existed but the cultural shift towards using it happened during Covid. Many people want to retain this. They do not want to have to commute, which can mean spending three hours per day in a car. Remote working gave workers more time at home with children. It improved the lives of workers, which in itself improved productivity. It is a win–win for all.

The draft Bill, as it stands, is not fit for purpose. It was not written with workers in mind; it was written for employers. In criminal law, reference is made to presumptions. A presumption can be rebutted but the presumption in this case seems to lie with the employer rather than the employee. The legislation grants a right of refusal to employers. To dress this legislation up as affording a right to workers while at the same time including multiple clauses to ensure they can never access the right is wrong. I understand that amendments have been proposed. Will the Tánaiste amend the Bill to guarantee a right to work remotely? Can he elaborate on the amendments he will be submitting?

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