Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We only got the draft code back ten days ago. We are now looking to approve that code and we are testing it, as the Deputy would expect in any process, before finally approving it and publishing it. It is probably a matter of days before that happens. We are now in a good place. We are moving towards putting a lot more structure, permanency and acceptance around how arrangements for flexible working and remote working are going to work. This is a challenging thing to get right. I speak to other Ministers, employers and trade unions about getting the balance right and ensuring we maintain a competitive workplace, while at the same time trying to adapt to the flexible needs of employees. From what I have read, this code of practice does get the balance right and I think it will be welcomed by employers, workers and worker representatives. I believe we will get it finalised in the coming days.

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