Ireland has taken significant steps to improve equitable access to assistive technology following the publication of a new Assistive Technology Capacity Assessment (ATA-C) conducted jointly by the Government of Ireland and WHO/Europe. The assessment offers the most detailed evaluation so far of Ireland’s ability to provide assistive technologies such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, walking canes, eyeglasses and digital support tools. It highlights progress made in recent years while also identifying challenges related to coordination, regional inequalities, governance and financing systems.
The report emphasizes that assistive technology plays a crucial role in helping people with disabilities, older adults and individuals living with chronic conditions maintain independence and participate fully in society. WHO officials noted that access to these technologies remains limited and uneven globally, making it essential for countries to strengthen systems that ensure affordable and timely support. Irish officials also stressed that assistive technology can improve education, employment and quality of life by enabling people to communicate, learn and move more independently.
Conducted between September 2024 and May 2025, the assessment used the WHO Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology framework to evaluate Ireland’s systems across several areas, including policy, workforce, service delivery, products and user needs. The process involved consultation with government departments, service providers, advocacy organizations and technology users, helping identify both strengths and ongoing barriers within the system.
The assessment recommends several actions to create a more unified and responsive assistive technology system in Ireland. These include improving policy coordination across sectors, strengthening data collection and information systems, developing sustainable financing and procurement mechanisms, expanding workforce skills and placing greater focus on user-centred service delivery. The goal is to move from fragmented services toward a national system that provides affordable and appropriate assistive technology to everyone who needs it.
WHO/Europe stated that the assessment provides a strong evidence base for future reforms and investments and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ireland in translating the findings into practical policy action. As populations age and healthcare needs become more complex, the report highlights that strengthening assistive technology systems is essential for building inclusive and resilient healthcare systems across Europe.
