Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 16:33
Wexford TD George Lawlor says the Government is sending mixed messages by investing in rural working hubs while opposing legislation to strengthen workers’ rights to work remotely.
The Labour Party’s enterprise spokesperson was speaking following the launch of the Government’s Our Rural Future 2026–2031 plan.
Deputy Lawlor is calling on the Government to reverse its opposition to Labour’s Work Life Balance (Right to Remote Work) Bill, which would provide an enforceable right to remote working where reasonably practicable, with safeguards for employers.
He says expanding rural working hubs makes little sense if workers do not have stronger rights to work remotely where their jobs allow.
Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil previously voted against the proposed legislation.
Deputy Lawlor says working closer to home could help people reduce commuting costs amid the cost-of-living crisis, while also supporting local businesses, shops and cafés.
He says workers should be entitled to a fair assessment of whether their role can be carried out remotely, along with a meaningful way to challenge an unreasonable refusal.
Deputy Lawlor says the Government must ensure its policies match its commitments if it is serious about supporting rural communities and giving people more opportunities to work closer to home.
