The CIPD welcomes the opening of consultation on the right to request remote and flexible working

Responding to the announcement of a public consultation seeking the views of members of the public, employers and other interested parties on the right to request a remote working arrangement, the CIPD’s market sirector for Ireland, Alison Hodgson said:

“We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the consultation on the right to request remote and flexible working and we strongly encourage individuals and organisations to have their say. 

“Current legislation focuses mainly on the mechanics of submitting and responding to requests without a robust mechanism to challenge the fairness or consistency of decisions. We believe that introducing clearer criteria for refusal, including a definition of what constitutes a ‘substantial adverse effect’, alongside an independent appeal or review process would help deliver more transparent, equitable and consistent decision making. 

“It is essential that the legislation remains clear, workable and supports constructive dialogue between employer and employee while also reflecting the diverse realities across sectors, roles and business models.”