Cognizant blames Google for remote work denials in Ireland
DUBLIN, IRELAND — Tech outsourcing firm Cognizant has refused 75 employees’ requests to work from home, blaming the decision on its client, Google.
According to Cognizant, Google’s “client delivery model” requires workers assigned to its projects to be present in the office.
The controversy comes as Ireland’s new remote work legislation, introduced last year, grants employees the right to request remote or hybrid working arrangements. However, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), tasked with resolving disputes under this law, has yet to rule in favor of employees in any of the 16 cases finalized so far.
Employee’s case highlights work-from-home disputes
One prominent case involved Javier Osorio, a senior process executive at Cognizant who sought a hybrid work arrangement to care for his 10-year-old daughter. Osorio, who began his role remotely during the pandemic, requested three days of remote work per week. Cognizant denied the request, citing Google’s requirement for in-office attendance.
The WRC upheld Cognizant’s decision, stating that the company had properly considered Osorio’s application. The adjudication officer noted that Cognizant consulted with Google about the possibility of remote work but found the client “unwilling to permit” such arrangements.
Internal emails revealed that Cognizant informed staff of its contract with Google, which mandates office-based work at Dublin’s Eastpoint Business Park.
Google denies imposing vendor remote work restrictions
Google has denied claims that its contracts dictate vendors’ remote work policies. A spokesperson clarified: “Cognizant, as the employer, is responsible for the employment conditions of these workers.”
While acknowledging that certain roles involving sensitive workflows may require in-office attendance, Google emphasized it does not specify how many days vendor employees must be onsite.
Cognizant has declined to share its contract terms with employees and has not provided further comments on the matter.
Union calls for stronger worker protections amid disputes
Brian McDowell of the Financial Services Union criticized Ireland’s remote work legislation as inadequate to protect employees’ rights. He described disputes over remote working as the “number one issue” for tech workers and noted that many major tech firms have recently mandated partial or full-time office returns. In contrast, McDowell highlighted greater flexibility in sectors like Irish retail banking.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment confirmed plans to review the legislation within two years of its implementation. This review will involve consultations with employee and employer representatives and could lead to stronger protections for workers seeking flexible arrangements.
