A new code of practice governing access to part-time work has been formally enacted.
The revised code was developed by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and aims to offer practical guidance to help employers and employees reach agreements on part-time arrangements that promote flexible, inclusive and modern workplaces, reports RTE.
It is hoped the code will assist efforts to broaden flexible working opportunities and boost participation in the labour market, particularly among parents, carers, older workers and students.
The code is grounded in part-time work legislation, which ensures part-time staff are not treated less favourably than comparable full-time employees and that all employment protections apply equally, reports RTE.
The new code was signed into law by the Minister of State for Small Businesses, Retail and Employment at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Alan Dillon.
“Part-time work can empower parents and carers to better balance the demands and quality of modern life,” Mr Dillon said, reports RTE.
“This revised code of practice will support employers and employees to facilitate part-time working arrangements by providing practical guidance and best practice in relation to part-time work,” he added.
Employers are being encouraged to review their internal policies and to publish gender-balanced data on the uptake of flexible working arrangements in order to promote transparency, reports RTE.
“Access to part time employment opportunities plays a vital role for many employees today and particularly for those who are seeking to enter the jobs market while continuing to devote some of their time to other personal obligations,” said Audrey Cahill, Director General of the WRC, reports RTE.
“The revised code provides clearer guidance for employers and employees, supporting best practice in the implementation and m
anagement of part time working arrangements,” Ms Cahill said, reports RTE.
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