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For Written Answer on : 05/04/2022
Question Number(s): 443 Question Reference(s): 18161/22
Department: Defence
Asked by: David Stanton T.D.
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QUESTION
To ask the Minister for Defence the current policy with respect to remote working options for staff in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
REPLY
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department, in line with other civil and public service organisations, has adhered to public health advice and to the Guidance for Public Service Employers published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. This has meant employees working from home, but also attending the workplace to carry out essential work that cannot be discharged from home.
A central government policy, the Civil Service Blended Working Framework was launched by Minister Michael McGrath and Minister Ossian Smyth on 31st March 2022. The Blended Working Policy Framework provides an overarching framework to inform the development of blended working policies in government departments and offices and to ensure a consistency of approach across the Public Service. My Department is currently reviewing this framework with a view to finalising a Blended Working Policy tailored to the specific business needs of my Department.
This policy is expected to be in place no later than the end of June 2022.