Remote working proves a success as Minister Dillon says legislation benefits Mayo and rural Ireland

According to Ministers Alan Dillon and Peter Burke TD, the statutory review of Ireland’s right to request remote work has confirmed the legislation introduced under the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 is working effectively.

The review, published today, shows that 94 percent of employee requests for remote work were approved, either fully or in part, with employers reporting minimal administrative burden. 

While the law is functioning as intended, the report notes that awareness of the right remains low, particularly in rural communities, including counties like Mayo.

Minister Alan Dillon emphasised the importance of extending awareness of the right across the country.

“Remote working is now a fundamental part of how Ireland works. This review clearly shows that when employees use their right to request remote working, it delivers, with over 90% of requests approved in full or in part,” he said. “But it also tells us that too many people are still not aware that the right exists. A national awareness campaign will help ensure workers and employers across the country to become aware and understand that the right exists.”

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The review also noted that Ireland was one of the first EU countries to introduce a legal right to request remote work, supported by Codes of Practice on flexible and remote work and the right to disconnect.

As part of the next steps, Minister Dillon will ask the Workplace Relations Commission to update the Code of Practice to provide clearer guidance for employees, support transparent decision-making by employers, clarify timelines, and encourage structured consultation.

The Government will continue to support remote work nationwide through investment in high-speed broadband—targeting 1.1 million people—the National Hub Network, tax reliefs for working from home, and ongoing research on hybrid and remote work.

“With more than 8,000 consultation responses, it’s clear remote working matters deeply to people,” added Minister Dillon. “Remote work continues to be supported through investment in national broadband, remote working hubs, and tax relief for home working.”

For Mayo, where remote work could help retain talent and support rural communities, the review underscores the potential for flexible work arrangements to drive economic and social benefits outside Ireland’s major urban centres.

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