Fórsa Presents Research on Remote Work Benefits to NESC, Citing Productivity and Cost Savings

Fórsa, Ireland's largest public sector trade union, is scheduled to present research today on the advantages of remote working to the National Economic and Social Council (NESC). The NESC serves as the national advisory body to the Taoiseach and the Government.

In 2025, the Department of the Taoiseach commissioned NESC to conduct research into the evolution and impact of remote and blended working models in Ireland. As part of this initiative, Fórsa will share the findings from the most extensive study on remote and hybrid work conducted to date. This research was commissioned by the union and initially presented at its conference in May.

The study concluded that flexible working arrangements yield improved outcomes, with key benefits including reduced commuting time, enhanced productivity, and lower work-related expenses. Only 6% of managers reported difficulties meeting deadlines in remote environments. Furthermore, managers expressed greater satisfaction with communication, collaboration, and meetings within remote and hybrid teams. Nearly half of the respondents indicated that flexible work led to a reduction in overall care costs, particularly childcare, while many also noted decreased fuel and transport expenditures.

The research integrated survey data from Amárach Research, encompassing nearly 20,000 public service employees, including over 5,000 managers. This was complemented by survey and focus group research conducted by Ireland Thinks. Kevin Donoghue, Fórsa Campaigns Director, commented, «Six years on from the shift to remote working, which was a huge overnight experiment, the evidence is consistent. People are getting more done and working in ways that are more sustainable for them.»