Remote Working Policy Shifts: Opportunities and Challenges for the South West’s Business Landscape

An Orbitus Analysis

The conversation around remote working has taken a notably sharper turn since late 2025. What began as measured policy discussions has evolved into more pointed political debate, with Labour TD Ged Nash recently describing Ireland’s remote working legislation as “an act of fraud perpetrated against commuters” during Dáil proceedings.

Since our last discussion on remote working, we’ve been monitoring these developments as they relate to Kerry’s business environment and the broader implications for rural economic development.

Understanding the Shift

The change in tone reflects growing frustration with the current system. In November 2025, industry experts were discussing the “normalising of new work arrangements,” with the Construction Industry Federation’s Conor O’Connell welcoming the government’s emphasis on infrastructure to support housing supply.

By February 2026, the language had become more direct. Labour’s George Lawlor introduced legislation aimed at strengthening worker rights, while the government maintained its position that the current framework strikes “a fair balance between flexibility and the need of businesses to stay competitive.”

“We’re seeing this play out in real terms with our clients,” explains Jennifer O’Brien, Orbitus’s Head of HR. “Companies are asking more detailed questions about their obligations and how to structure policies that work for both business needs and employee expectations.”

The South West Context

For businesses across the South West, these policy discussions are increasingly significant. The region continues to face challenges in attracting and retaining talent, particularly among younger professionals who are drawn to larger urban centres for career progression and lifestyle opportunities.

Recent data shows rental costs in Kerry have increased across all property types in the past year, with double rooms now averaging €566–€673 per month. While still below major urban centres, these increases reflect growing demand and constrained housing supply, pressures that are now being felt across much of the wider South West region.

“What we’re seeing is interest from all sides,” notes Jennifer O’Brien. “Kerry businesses are focused on how to compete for talent locally, while organisations across the South West and beyond are exploring regional operating models that allow them to access high-quality workforces outside traditional urban centres.”

Housing Policy Connections

The government’s recent housing plan, promising 300,000 homes by 2030, focuses heavily on urban development. However, as Senator Victor Boyhan observed, rural communities received “a loose commitment” rather than specific activation measures.

This creates an interesting dynamic. Sites like Fels Point in Tralee, idle for years, are now seeing development interest. Councillor Mikey Sheehy described the recent Expression of Interest process as representing “significant progress” for the strategically located site.

The connection between housing development and population retention is clear. Areas that can attract and retain working-age residents are more likely to justify infrastructure investment and development projects.

Two Possible Directions

Scenario One: Enhanced Flexibility

If the 2026 review strengthens remote working rights, the southwest could benefit from increased interest from professionals seeking better work-life balance. The county offers lower living costs, shorter commutes, and quality of life advantages that become more accessible when physical office presence is less critical.

“We’ve already had conversations with companies considering Kerry and Cork operations specifically because they can offer employees the option to live here while serving Dublin markets,” explains O’Brien.

Scenario Two: Status Quo Continuation

If current employer discretion remains unchanged, Kerry businesses may find it harder to compete for talent with more flexible competitors in urban areas. This could continue existing patterns of outward migration, particularly among graduates and young professionals.

Practical Considerations

The government’s €1bn Infrastructure Investment Fund, part of the broader housing strategy, aims to unlock development sites where essential infrastructure is missing. Kerry’s ability to benefit from such funding may depend partly on demonstrating population growth potential.

“It’s about positioning,” notes O’Brien. “Areas that can show they’re attracting working-age residents are more likely to receive infrastructure investment, which then supports further development.”

The current legislative framework gives employers significant discretion in remote working decisions. However, the Australian Westpac case, recently highlighted in legal analysis, suggests tribunals elsewhere are increasingly scrutinizing blanket refusals and “one-size-fits-all” approaches.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 review process will likely clarify the direction of remote working policy. For Kerry businesses, this presents both preparation opportunities and strategic considerations.

Companies that develop clear, defensible policies around remote working – whether accommodating or restricting it – will be better positioned regardless of legislative changes. Those that can articulate genuine business needs for specific arrangements will have stronger foundations.

“The key is being intentional about your approach,” advises O’Brien. “Whether you’re embracing remote working as a competitive advantage or maintaining office-based operations for valid business reasons, having clear rationale and consistent application matters.”

The Broader Picture

Remote working policy intersects with housing development, infrastructure investment, and regional economic development in ways that weren’t fully apparent when the original legislation was drafted.

For Kerry, these intersections create opportunities to attract talent and investment while maintaining the county’s distinctive character. Success will likely depend on how well local businesses, developers, and policymakers coordinate their approaches.

The political debate will continue, but the practical implications are already emerging in hiring patterns, development projects, and business location decisions across the county.

* Nothing in this article is intended to contain legal advice, and readers should seek the appropriate advice specific to their circumstances.