She said she was ‘delighted’ to see how Alliance have influenced the work of the Minister in bringing forward this important legislation.
Ms Nicholl has said: “I have been advocating for reforms to flexible working long before the restoration of the institutions and have maintained pressure on the Minister to deliver these changes in the months since his appointment, so this is very welcome.
“In June 2023, I announced my intention to bring forward a Private Members Bill on flexible working. I firmly believe that the lack of a right to flexible working in Northern Ireland is limiting our economic potential and acts as a major barrier to significant sections of our society entering the workforce.
“In my ongoing work on childcare reform, I know that the lack of flexible working is often a significant reason why parents feel unable to return to work after parental leave. It is also crucial that those with caring responsibilities have flexibility and an opportunity to work alongside those responsibilities.
“Alliance believes the introduction of more flexible practices could enhance the inclusiveness and productivity of our economy, allowing carers and parents in particular an opportunity to join or re-join the workforce, and make a valuable contribution to the Northern Ireland economy.
“Having advocated for these changes for some time, I am very glad to see this consultation coming forward. I would encourage all interested parties to submit their views on the proposed changes.”