S.I. No. 358/2020 European Union (Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications of Public Sector Bodies) Regulations 2020 - Ireland
What Is This Law About?
This law ensures that websites and mobile apps owned by public sector bodies in Ireland are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. It requires these digital services to meet certain accessibility standards so that all users, regardless of their abilities, can access information and services easily.
Key Requirements in Simple Terms
1. Accessible Design – Public sector websites and mobile apps must be designed so that people with disabilities (such as visual, hearing, or motor impairments) can use them. This includes features like:
- Text alternatives for images (so screen readers can describe them).
- Keyboard navigation (for those who can’t use a mouse).
- Clear and readable text with good contrast.
2. Accessibility Statement – Each website or app must have an easy-to-find statement explaining how accessible it is. If there are any limitations, these must be listed, along with contact details for reporting issues.
3. Feedback Mechanism – Users must be able to report accessibility problems and request information that isn’t accessible. Public sector bodies must respond to these requests in a reasonable time.
4. Regular Monitoring – Public sector bodies must check and fix accessibility issues on their websites and apps regularly.
Important Dates
- Enacted: September 22, 2020
- Compliance Deadlines:
- New websites (published after September 23, 2018): Had to comply by September 23, 2020.
- Older websites (published before September 23, 2018): Must comply by September 23, 2021.
- Mobile applications: Must comply by June 23, 2021.
Based on the Official Document
This explanation is a simplified summary of S.I. No. 358/2020. For full details, refer to the official document here: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2020/si/358/made/en/print