Digital Business Ireland (DBI) has raised concerns that a significant number of Irish businesses are unprepared for the incoming European Accessibility Act (EAA), which takes effect on June 28. The new EU legislation requires businesses to make their digital platforms accessible to people with disabilities, or face potential fines and legal consequences.
According to recent research by DBI, 49% of businesses in Ireland are still unaware of their responsibilities under the new law. Even among those who are aware, only 35% have begun taking steps towards compliance. Alarmingly, over 90% of the surveyed businesses revealed they have not allocated any budget for accessibility upgrades.
The EAA is a major legislative effort to ensure digital inclusion across the European Union. It mandates that websites, mobile apps, e-commerce services, ticketing machines, e-books, and other digital products must be designed to be accessible to users with disabilities. For businesses, especially SMEs, this means reviewing and adapting their online presence to meet strict technical standards.
Digital Business Ireland has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the EAA. In April, it launched a comprehensive accessibility guide developed in partnership with web design experts, New Graphic. The organisation has also hosted free webinars to equip business owners—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve compliance.
DP Fitzgerald, national spokesperson for Digital Business Ireland, stressed the importance of the new law, not just from a legal standpoint, but as a matter of inclusivity and long-term business growth.
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"Irish businesses have only days left to ensure their digital platforms are accessible. But this is about more than compliance—it's about creating inclusive digital spaces where everyone can engage fully, including people with disabilities," he said.
Fitzgerald also noted that accessible websites tend to deliver a better user experience for all customers and can help businesses expand their reach.
However, he expressed concern about the lack of government-led initiatives to support small businesses in meeting the EAA requirements. He urged state agencies to take immediate action in the final days leading up to the deadline.
"We're calling on the government to launch an urgent awareness campaign and to make financial supports, such as the under-used Grow Digital Voucher, more accessible to SMEs. Without support, many businesses risk falling short of the new EU standards," he said.
As the deadline looms, Irish businesses that serve EU customers regardless of size—must act quickly to avoid penalties and take meaningful steps toward digital inclusion.
