by HRHQ Editorial Team
Staff at AIB and Bank of Ireland have voiced frustration and disappointment over new return-to-office policies announced this summer. Both banks revealed plans to increase mandatory in-office days for hybrid workers, sparking backlash from employees and the Financial Services Union (FSU).
AIB’s initial directive required staff to work from their designated office at least three days a week, excluding local hubs and branches. The FSU condemned the move as “regressive, shortsighted and without justification,” citing the impact on commuting, childcare, and work-life balance. Following weeks of negotiations, AIB revised its stance, allowing one of the three office days to be fulfilled at a local working hub. The bank also committed to honoring pre-existing arrangements and agreed that future changes would require union approval. AIB stated it had “listened to feedback” and would not increase attendance requirements further if the new model proves effective .
Bank of Ireland similarly mandated a minimum of eight in-office days per month. The FSU criticised the decision, arguing it conflicted with staff preferences and lacked proper consultation. The union has since referred the matter to the Workplace Relations Commission, citing the bank’s “intransigence” .
Employees described the announcements as abrupt and poorly communicated, with one anonymous staff member saying the changes were “not well sign-posted” and left many feeling blindsided.
The controversy underscores the growing tension between corporate return-to-office strategies and employee expectations for flexibility in a post-pandemic workplace.
