RIP Laura Buckley Noonan
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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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The 2023 Europe Direct Regional Soapbox Final at the Dr Mary Strangman Large Room in City Hall, Waterford
Applications are being sought from those interested in taking part in this year's Europe Direct Soapbox public speaking competition.
The regional event will take place in the Dr Mary Strangman Large Room in City Hall, The Mall, Waterford on Wednesday, November 6.
The topic is 'A.I. is not a threat to Humanity' and entrants are invited to deliver a three-minute speech for or against the topic.
READ ALSO: County Waterford man banned from owning dogs following animal cruelty convictions
The competition, sponsored by the European Commission Representation and supported by Waterford City and County Council, is open to entrants in two categories: ages 16 and under or 17 and over.
Regional winners will go on to represent their region in the national competition which takes place at the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin on November 26.
Commenting ahead of the regional event, Breda O'Shea, Executive Librarian with Waterford City and County Council said: "I would encourage young people to enter the Soapbox competition. Whether you're a proficient public speaker or have a particular viewpoint on the topic, it's a wonderful experience in expressing your views and it’s also a great confidence booster."
As well as having the opportunity to represent the Waterford region in the national finals, participants will have a chance to win €1,000 worth of One4All vouchers and all regional winners will receive a prize of an iPad.
Caoilan Walsh, last year’s winner of the 17 & over category, said: "The Soapbox was an absolutely wonderful experience, and I would do it again if I could. I had a wonderful time both from the competition and social aspect. I learned so much about both Irish and EU politics from the study I did for my speech.
"Just taking part was enough for me, but winning was a better feeling than I can ever describe! If you or someone you know is interested in public speaking or the world around you, I would highly recommend entering the soapbox competition."
To enter you can download the application form and read the competition rules here or call into any of Waterford's 12 Library branches. Emailed application forms will be issued with a confirmation of receipt email.
The closing date for application is 4.30pm on Friday November 1, 2024.
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