Flexible working arrangements are increasingly recognised as an important means of supporting employees with caring responsibilities and promoting work-life balance as the employment landscape continues to evolve with time. The Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 introduced a statutory right for qualifying employees to request flexible working arrangements for caring purposes, including parents of young children and carers providing support to specified persons. Flexible working may include arrangements such as modified working hours, reduced hours, remote working, job-share and/or adjusted work patterns to better accommodate caring responsibilities.
In addition, all employees have a legal right to request remote working arrangements. While employers are not obliged to approve every request, they must consider applications in accordance with the legislative requirements and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) Code of Practice. Employees may submit a request from the commencement of employment; however, generally six months’ continuous service is required before an approved arrangement can commence.
The legislation aims to support workforce participation, assist employees in balancing work and personal responsibilities, and promote a better work-life balance. Employers should implement clear policies outlining the process for making and assessing requests, while employees should be aware that the legislation provides a right to request flexible or remote working arrangements, rather than an automatic entitlement to have such requests approved.
If you require further support or advice relating to HR, please do not hesitate to contact us at hrsolutions@nfpireland.ie / (066)7102887.
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Caroline Reidy, Head of NFP HR Solutions Ireland Limited, HR and Employment Law Specialist