Why Ireland’s EU Presidency Should Champion Remote Employment

In August, we published our Pre-Budget Submission 2026, calling on the Irish government to set a national target to win a share of the 100,000+ remote jobs advertised monthly across Europe.

But that pool isn’t big enough. Eurofound’s 2024 survey shows 74% of EU workers want to work remotely — yet fully remote positions have dropped from 24% to 14% since 2022. Demand far exceeds supply.

Ireland holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from July to December 2026. That’s a chance to do something about it.

Our ask: Council Conclusions on Remote Employment — political commitment to grow the supply of remote jobs at EU level and empower each member state to compete for them.

More remote jobs in the European talent pool means more opportunities for Irish workers. Every member state has the same incentive to grow the top of that funnel.

The submission connects directly to the Commission’s 2026 work programme and its Quality Jobs Act. Remote employment is quality employment: secure income, full employer taxes, career progression — with time in your community.

Ireland has shown leadership: state-funded training, 400+ Connected Hubs, 98% broadband. The Presidency is our chance to bring these solutions to Europe.

Read our full submission below.

European Jobs. Decent Work. For all regions.