Conor Dowds, co-chair of the Cross-Border Workers Coalition
For a number of years now, a growing number of fellow cross border workers have been raising concerns about the difficulties faced simply because we are resident in the Republic of Ireland but work in Northern Ireland.
In particular, we are largely prohibited from remote working and are subject to a ‘double tax’ on income should it be determined that we have performed any of our work duties within the Republic of Ireland.
The inability to take a work-related call at my kitchen table or even attend events in Dundalk, Dungloe or Dublin just because I work in Derry has always baffled me. This did not make sense before the Coronavirus pandemic and it certainly does not make sense today with many people working from home in some capacity across the island of Ireland.
Indeed, with Donegal moving to Level 3 of the Irish Government’s five-level alert plan and talk of people being discouraged from crossing the ‘border’, it is obvious to see that long-term issues around cross-border workers need to be addressed urgently.
Despite the challenges of the past six months, it has illuminated the issues facing cross-border workers like myself in a way no one could have foreseen. As John Adams said, “every problem is an opportunity in disguise” and now is certainly the ideal opportunity to address the long term issues. It is important to note that Revenue Commissioner temporarily waived the tax liability during the coronavirus pandemic, but this could ultimately come to a halt at any time.
The Revenue Commissioner has shown this change is possible with the temporary reprieve. It is incumbent upon them and the Irish Government to find a permanent solution which can once and for all alleviate this pressure on many anxious cross-border workers.
New Group: the Cross-Border Workers Coalition
Having met with fellow workers, political representatives and business groups on both sides of the border, it is clear the time is now right to introduce modern fit for purpose legislation which is reflective of the current working practices, the wider economy and also the environment.
It is important that the stress and strain the current regime places upon the health and well-being of thousands of workers is recognised. Technology is so advanced that workplace connectivity is now commonplace and has proven to allow workers to spend more time with their families when they are not commuting. It has also cut down substantially on pollution and traffic due to the over reliance on cars getting workers across the border to their physical office space. These are just some of the many benefits.
With Brexit high on the agenda again we need to ensure that we do all we can to mitigate the worst impacts of the UK leaving the European Union. That means reminding our politicians about the guarantees contained in the Good Friday Agreement and the flow of people, talent and skills across the island of Ireland which has a significant impact on our collective prosperity brought about by wealth creation, jobs, economic growth and social mobility.
The need for change could not be any more apparent and we’ll continue to push those in the corridors of power to recognise this and implement this.