Europe Direct Carrigaline Invites Entries for Soapbox Public Speaking Competition 2026
Cork County Council’s Europe Direct Centre in Carrigaline is inviting entries for the Europe Direct Soapbox Public Speaking Competition 2026, offering participants the opportunity to showcase their public speaking skills and engage in debate on a contemporary European issue.
The Europe Direct Carrigaline Soapbox, which serves as the regional final for Cork and Kerry, will take place on Monday, 12th October 2026 in Carrigaline Library.This year's debate topic is: “Culture is at the heart of what it means to be European. But is Ireland culturally closer to Strasbourg or Sydney?”
Entrants are invited to deliver a three-minute speech either for or against the motion. Speeches may be presented in either Irish or English.Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Bernard Moynihan said, “The Europe Direct Soapbox Competition is a fantastic opportunity for people across Cork and Kerry to share their views, develop their public speaking skills and engage in debate on an important question about Ireland’s cultural identity. I encourage anyone with an interest in the topic to enter the competition.”
The competition is open to participants of all ages, with two categories:16 years and under17 years and overWinners of both categories will be announced on the day of the regional final. Winners will be invited to attend the national final at the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin on Thursday 3rd December 2026.
Regional winners will receive an iPad or Samsung tablet, sponsored by the European Commission Representation in Ireland. Competitors from both age categories will also have the opportunity to compete for the overall national prizes.
The closing date for entries is Monday, 5th October 2026.Entry forms can be returned by email to europedirect@corkcoco.ie or by post to Carrigaline Library, Strand Road, Carrigaline, Co. Cork, P43 HA25.
For entry forms or for further information, email europedirect@corkcoco.ie or call 021-4371888.
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