Cork people urged 'get on their soapbox' to showcase public speaking skills

The recently opened Europe Direct Centre in Carrigaline is inviting people to ‘get on their soapbox’ to showcase their public speaking skills and engage in debate on a contemporary European issue.

The Europe Direct Soapbox Public Speaking Competition 2026, which serves as the regional final for Cork and Kerry, will take place on Monday, October 12, at the Carrigaline Library.

This year’s debate topic will be: ‘Culture is at the heart of what it means to be European. But is Ireland culturally closer to Strasbourg or Sydney?”

Entrants will be invited to deliver a three-minute speech in English or Irish, either for or against the motion.

Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Bernard Moynihan, said: “The competition is a fantastic opportunity for people to share their views, develop their public speaking skills and engage in debate on an important question about Ireland’s cultural identity.”

The competition is open to participants of all ages, with two categories: 16 years and under 17 years and over, with the winner announced on the day.

Winners of both categories, who will be announced on the day, will receive an iPad or Samsung tablet and an invite to attend the national final at the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin on Thursday, December 3.

The closing date for entries to the regional events in Carrigaline is Monday, October 5.

For entry forms or for further information, email europedirect@corkcoco.ie or call (021) 437 1888. 

Entry forms can be returned by email to europedirect@corkcoco.ie or by post to Carrigaline Library, Strand Road, Carrigaline, Co. Cork, P43 HA25.