Digital Business Ireland, the country’s largest representative body for digital and online businesses, has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of new EU accessibility rules for websites, apps, and digital sources.
Digital Business Ireland said it will also support Irish businesses to comply with the new rules.
A recent DBI research project found that 49% of Irish businesses are unaware of the requirements of the incoming European Accessibility Act (EAA), and do not believe they will be compliant by the time it comes into effect on June 28, 2025.
DBI also found that only 35% of businesses surveyed had begun to take steps to prepare for the EAA, and over 90% had no budget allocated for accessibility compliance.
In collaboration with web design specialists New Graphic, Digital Business Ireland has published a comprehensive guide to help businesses meet accessibility standards. The guide was today launched by Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke.
Caroline Dunlea, Chair of Digital Business Ireland, said she believes the Digital Accessibility Guide will provide crucial guidance and support for businesses to meet digital accessibility standards.
“Not only is this legislation important for inclusivity, we also believe the EAA offers significant opportunities for businesses to review their websites, apps and platforms, to create a better user experience for everyone, and to reach a wider audience,” she added.
Peter Burke said the new legislation will ensure that nobody is left behind in the digital transition.
“As we approach the compliance deadline of June 28, it is vitally important that private businesses of all sizes are fully aware of what measures they need to take to ensure their digital tools are fully accessible to all,” he said.
“I have every confidence in businesses in Ireland and their ability to adapt to change. Our innovative and dynamic SME sector is crucial to our economy, and this campaign by Digital Business Ireland provides them with everything they need to know about ensuring they are compliant with the EAA by 28 June,” he added.
