Digital Business Ireland launches new campaign to raise awareness of new EU accessibility rules for websites and app
- 49% of businesses do not believe they will be compliant with European Accessibility Regulations by June 28 deadline
- Digital Business Ireland launches new Digital Accessibility Guide for SME
Dublin- 10th April, 2025:
Digital Business Ireland, Ireland’s largest representative body for digital and online businesses, has today been joined by Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, to launch a new campaign to raise awareness of new EU accessibility rules for websites, apps, and digital sources, and to support Irish businesses to comply with new rules.
A recent DBI research project found that nearly half (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 28 June 2025.
As part of the research, 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 Peter Burke.
Minister Burke stated: “I am delighted to participate in the launch of Digital Business Ireland’s digital accessibility compliance campaign. This vital legislation ensures that nobody is left behind in the digital transition. As we approach the compliance deadline of 28 June, 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.’
‘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.’
Caroline Dunlea, Chair of Digital Business Ireland and CEO and Co-Founder of Core Optimisation, said- ‘Digital Business Ireland is proud to bring attention to this important incoming legislation, which will help ensure that digital services are accessible to all. Designed with support from our partners at New Graphic, we believe our 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.’
The EAA represents an extension of the Web Accessibility Directive, which mandated accessibility of the digital platforms of public bodies to all people, including those with disabilities. Under the EAA, these accessibility standards will be expected of all businesses and organisations with digital platforms. Businesses that fail to comply by the deadline will be subject to fines or legal issues.
