Addressing this issue of remote working in the Chamber on 21 January last, I said, "These working conditions must be based on a legal framework, giving an entitlement to these arrangements." This Bill, which I warmly welcome, does just that. It gives workers a clear, enforceable legal right to work remotely and ends refusals based on tradition, preconceived ideas, antagonisms and vague and spurious reasons. Remote working is here to stay. It is more productive, more family friendly and reduces unnecessary travel. It coincides with transport, climate and housing policy and helps, of course, to regenerate rural Ireland. The Bill is also timely as we have seen recent moves by banks, IT companies and even Government Departments attempting to force workers back to the office. There is a real appetite for this type of working. A recent survey by the Fórsa trade union found that 86% of members were interested in remote working and 80% were interested in the hybrid situation of working at home and working in the office. A legal framework must also cover areas such as protection against forced returns to the office. An arbitrary, blanket or full-time return to the office should be outlawed. There must be a right to disconnect. Workers must be protected from a situation where they are forced to work after working hours. It must also be voluntary. It must not be a compulsory situation. Workers must have the right to opt in or out. There must be an equality of rights between remote workers and office workers. The former must have the same rights, protections and promotional opportunities as office staff. Obviously, health and safety guidelines must also be included in the legislation, which will include things such as workstations and mental health. Particular groups such as carers and staff with particular health needs must also be covered in legislation. I welcome and support the Bill and I thank Deputy Lawlor for tabling it.

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