Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 June 2024
106. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department and each body and agency under the remit of her Department has achieved the Government-mandated public sector remote working target of 20%; when this was achieved in each instance; the current percentage of staff working remotely; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25695/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 12th September 2022, my Department implemented a formal Blended Working Policy under which staff members were invited at that time to apply for a blended working arrangement and annually thereafter via the annual application process. The mandated public sector remote working target of 20% was achieved on implementation of this policy. My Department's formal Blended Working Policy offers a varied attendance model from the minimum office attendance being one day per week, right up to full-time office attendance, in line with business requirements, individual suitability and workstation requirements. Approved blended working arrangements under the 2024 application process became operational on the 29th January 2024.
The percentage of Departmental staff who work from home at least one day a week was 58% at end of year 2022, 58% at end of year 2023, and 59% as of 29th January 2024.
The Citizens Information Board formally introduced a blended working policy in January 2023. The mandated public sector remote working target of 20% was achieved on implementation of this policy. As of the 1st of January 2024, 95% of Citizens Information Board employees avail of a blended work pattern.
The Pensions Authority introduced a hybrid-working model from March 2022 and has achieved the Government mandated public sector remote working target of 20% since this time. Currently, 100% of employees can work remotely to some extent, and with most employees currently attending in person in the office two days a week.
