Data protection watchdogs have written to some of Ireland’s biggest websites, giving them 21 days to provide information on the steps they have taken to meet recently introduced cookie legislation.

Up to 80 websites are being targeted as part of the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner’s attempt to clarify compliance with the regulations, which were implemented in July 2011.

The regulations state that websites must provide information and capture consent for the use or access of cookies or other information when users visit the site. This is usually provided in a pop-up box by compliant websites. However, the rate of compliance from Irish websites has been low compared with other jurisdictions.

The list ranges from Government sites and State agencies to retailers and media companies. Among the names are the Department of Finance, the Dublin Airport Authority, deals site Groupon and Bank of Ireland. Media companies including the Irish Examiner, The Irish Times and Journal.iehave also been contacted by the DPC.

Deputy commissioner Gary Davis said the office was “disappointed” with the level of response from Irish websites.

The listed sites must provide information on how they have approached fulfilling their legal obligations within 21 days or risk facing enforcement action.

However, Mr Davis said he did not anticipate that it would be necessary to take further action, as “compliance is straightforward for most websites”