Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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143. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform for an update on the commitment to review the Civil Service Blended Working Policy Framework; when the review is expected to commence; the progress made to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27849/25]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Civil Service is committed to ensuring public access to services supported by efficient public service delivery. In this context, ongoing reviews of the impact of blended working on organisations, the workforce and the public are essential.

The Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service Organisations, launched in March 2022, provides strategic guidance to Civil Service departments and/or offices, enabling them to develop flexible policies tailored to their specific business needs. As provided for in the Framework, departments and/or offices are required to conduct ongoing reviews of their blended working policies in consultation with all stakeholders, including employee representative groups at local level. Blended working policies are being proactively reviewed and have been adjusted by Civil Service departments and/or offices, in consultation with employee representative groups at local level as provided for in the Framework.

To assist Civil Service organisations in effectively assessing the impact of blended ways of working on the workforce, organisations and the public, my Department published the Blended Working Evaluation Model in July 2024. The Blended Working Evaluation Model provides a mechanism for continuous improvement, enabling organisations to gain valuable insights, share learnings and identify areas for enhancement.

The Government has committed to review the Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service Organisations to consider how the implementation of this approach best delivers public services. My Department will consider the commitments and actions set out in the Programme for Government which fall under its remit.