Nearly half of Irish businesses admit being unprepared for crucial EU Digital Accessibility Law June deadline.
A new research study by Digital Business Ireland (DBI) has revealed 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 June 28, 2025 deadline.
The concerning findings prompted DBI to launch a new awareness campaign today (24 April), with Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, TD, in attendance.
“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 initiative aims to educate Irish businesses about the new EU accessibility requirements for websites, applications, and digital resources while providing practical support for compliance.
Understanding the European Accessibility Act
The EAA represents an extension of the Web Accessibility Directive, which previously mandated accessibility of digital platforms for public bodies.
Under the new legislation, these accessibility standards will apply to all businesses and organizations with digital platforms. Non-compliant businesses face potential fines and legal challenges after the June 28 deadline.
The DBI Digital Accessibility Guide is now available to help businesses navigate the compliance requirements and implement necessary changes before the deadline.
Businesses face significant compliance challenges
DBI’s preliminary research highlighted the scope of the challenge, revealing that only 35% of surveyed businesses had begun preparing for EAA implementation. More alarmingly, over 90% reported having no budget allocated for accessibility compliance measures, despite potential fines and legal consequences for non-compliance after the deadline.
To address these concerns, DBI has collaborated with web design and accessibility specialists New Graphic to publish a comprehensive Digital Accessibility Guide. The resource provides businesses with practical steps and guidance to meet the required accessibility standards.
Speaking at the launch event, Minister Burke stressed the significance of the legislation: “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.”
The Minister expressed confidence in Irish businesses’ adaptability, adding: “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.”
Business benefits beyond compliance
Caroline Dunlea, Chair of Digital Business Ireland and CEO and co-founder of digital marketing agency Core Optimisation, highlighted both the ethical and business advantages of accessibility compliance.
“Digital Business Ireland is proud to bring attention to this important incoming legislation, which will help ensure that digital services are accessible to all,” she said.
DBI’s community extends to more than 8,500 businesses and counts a number of national trade representative bodies as part of its membership, along with SMEs, individual, and larger businesses.
Dunlea also emphasised the strategic opportunities presented by the new requirements: “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.”
Image at top: Caroline Dunlea, chair, Digital Business Ireland; Enterprise Minister Peter Burke, TD; and David Garavin, New Graphic
-
Bank of Ireland is welcoming new customers every day – funding investments, working capital and expansions across multiple sectors. To learn more, click here
-
For support in challenging times, click here
-
Listen to the ThinkBusiness Podcast for business insights and inspiration. All episodes are here. You can also listen to the Podcast on:
-
Spotify
-
SoundCloud
-
Apple
