Covid-19 has made companies and businesses worldwide rethink their strategy when it comes to a viable remote working environment.

Dr. Frances Ruane, Chair of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council recently issued a bulletin on remote working and its future within the Irish industry.

Remote Working Benefits

The alternative working environment offers a new perspective on incorporating working with living, and the potential economic, social, and environmental benefits of this.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a disruptive force across all aspects of our lives and has profoundly changed the way we work.’ said Dr. Ruane.

The bulletin, however, focuses on the impact of the shift to increased isolated work on Irish enterprises and the possible implications for competitiveness and productivity.

‘Over the past year, we have seen how remote working opportunities could offer a better quality of life to those living and working in Ireland and there is a clear appetite to continue some form of remote working.’ Said Ruane.

The NCPC recognise the potential for enterprises to benefit from a remote working setup, as it gives access to a larger pool of talent, promotes retention, and improves cost-effectiveness.

Concerns

In response to the Bulletin Tánaiste Leo Varadka said ‘The benefits are obvious – less commuting, fewer transport emissions, the better quality of life for workers but we are aware that there are challenges to manage too.’

Remote working will either improve or halter productivity depending on connected factors ranging from strong digital and management skills, investment in broadband infrastructure to ICT equipment.

‘It is important that the potential implications of a future blended working environment are fully considered to uphold the competitiveness and productivity of the Irish economy’ said Dr. Ruane.

The potential productivity gains will take time to assess, and with this change, it will be vital for enterprises to collect data to monitor the impact, and implement accurate policies.

‘We are currently implementing a Strategy on remote working with actions across the board’ said Tánaiste Varadkar.

‘Including a code of practice on the right to disconnect, legislating to provide employees with the right to request remote working and ensuring we have the right tax incentives in place.’

The Future

To attract investment and talent, the NCPC bulletin also highlights how essential it is to improve the cost and quality of life in Ireland for urban and rural areas.

Later this year, the NCPC will explore the individual and societal aspects of remote working in Irelands Competitiveness Challenge 2021, and advise the Government on policies to support productivity and competitiveness.