UCD Staff Face New On-Site Work Requirements Amid Union Backlash

University College Dublin (UCD) has implemented a new policy requiring all staff to work on-site for at least three days a week, prompting significant criticism from the Siptu union. This decision has led to Siptu filing a case with the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) to contest the move, which they label as inflexible and unnecessary.

Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, UCD had allowed line managers to determine remote and hybrid working arrangements based on the specific needs of various departments. As a result, staff have enjoyed a range of working conditions: some have remained on campus five days a week, while others have opted for complete remote work or hybrid schedules.

In May 2023, both Siptu and the Irish Federation of University Teachers (Ifut) were informed of impending changes to this policy. Despite requests to postpone the changes for further discussion, staff were notified that the new requirements would take effect in June. Provisions have been made for those who feel disproportionately affected, allowing them to request exemptions for a year.

Cathie Shiels, a Siptu organiser, stated that less than 50 percent of staff have engaged with the new policy. Many local arrangements are still in place, creating concerns that union members could face disciplinary actions for non-compliance. During a recent meeting, Shiels highlighted the dissatisfaction among members, who view the three-day requirement as arbitrary and disconnected from actual departmental needs.

“Under the pilot scheme that was implemented during Covid and kept being extended, it was basically up to the local manager to decide who they needed on-site and when. That had been working really well for the last five years,” Shiels remarked. She noted that managers, many of whom are also union members, are now confronted with the need to enforce a policy that contradicts their previous operational flexibility.

Shiels estimates that nearly 750 of the union’s 900-strong membership could be impacted by these changes. Those with long commutes or family responsibilities, particularly women with young children, may face greater challenges. Additionally, staff commuting to the Belfield campus will likely encounter increased competition for parking, which is often full by early morning.

Throughout the negotiations, Siptu has consistently advocated for more flexibility in working arrangements. “The university has peak and off-peak times, and we’ve asked: ‘Would you not allow flexibility? There are numerous ways to incorporate flexibility that would make sense,” Shiels added.

The Irish Federation of University Teachers (Ifut) has indicated that while many of its lecturer members are not directly affected—given their need to be on campus for teaching—some administrative staff will be impacted. Ifut representatives plan to participate in WRC meetings, arguing that any changes should be mutually agreed upon.

UCD has been contacted for a statement regarding the union’s concerns and the reasoning behind the new policy. As the situation develops, the impact on staff morale and productivity remains to be seen.