In Short: The 'Right to Disconnect'
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In a much-publicised move, from 1 January 2017, French law has been amended
to provide employees with the 'right to disconnect' from their work e-mails
outside of normal working hours.
The intention is to allow employees to enjoy actual rather than token rest
periods at the end of their work day/week. It is hoped that this
development will assist in reducing employee work-related stress and burnout, as
well as promoting a work/life balance.
From an Irish employer's perspective, the right to disconnect will be
relevant where there are plans to relocate employees to France. While
there is no sign of a similar right being introduced under Irish law, employers
in Ireland should ensure that they fully comply with their obligations to
provide employees with the necessary rest periods between work days and at the
end of the work week, as required under the Organisation of Working Time Act
1997. Employers should also bear in mind their common law duties to their
employees.
Contributed by Alicia Compton and Paul Buchanan
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