Irish workers, employers split about RTO, flexible work in 2024

DUBLIN, IRELAND — Less than half (44%) of Irish workers have returned to office (RTO) full-time, while 58% of employers anticipate retaining flexible working models in 2024, according to a new survey by Hays Ireland.

The recruitment agency surveyed 1,500 professionals and employers in Ireland, finding that 44% of employees now work fully on-site, while 41% follow a hybrid schedule. Just 54% of staff said they would consider jobs without flexible options.

Meanwhile, 38% of employers will require employees to spend more time working from the office this year, but the majority plan to implement flexible working models.

Forty-eight percent of employees voiced hopes for enhanced work-life balance via adjusted hours. However, 61% refused to accept lower salaries for fully-remote roles, underlining the value of blended working.

“Our survey has shown that most employers are actively collaborating with their employees to enhance the workplace experience for everyone, highlighting the commitment by employers to create a better working environment,” said Hays Ireland managing director Maureen Lynch.

British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and technology firm Cisco previously said that a majority of UK companies will adopt a hybrid work model while less than 30% expect staff to be fully on-site over the next five years.