A revised Code of Practice for Part-Time Work has officially come into force in Ireland. The new code was prepared by the Workplace Relations Commission and signed by Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Enterprise and Employment.
The updated code provides clear, practical guidance to help employers and employees agree part-time working arrangements that support flexible, inclusive and modern workplaces. It also aims to increase transparency by encouraging employers to review flexible working policies and publish employment data broken down by gender.
According to the government, the code is expected to expand work options and boost labour-market participation, particularly among parents, carers, older workers and students. It builds on existing part-time work legislation and reinforces the principle that part-time employees must not be treated less favourably than full-time staff.
Minister Dillon said part-time work allows parents and carers to better balance work and family life. Audrey Cahill, Director General of the WRC, said the revised code would make access to part-time work simpler and clearer, while also offering best-practice guidance for managing such arrangements.
What the new code includes
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Protection against unfair discrimination for part-time workers
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Equal treatment in pay, duties, leave, training and promotion
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Clear procedures for requesting and approving part-time work
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Transparent communication between employers and employees
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Review of flexible working policies
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Publication of gender-disaggregated employment data
The overall aim of the code is to promote equality, mutual respect and fair treatment, while supporting work arrangements suited to modern life.