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Europe Direct Soapbox Competition 2023

Public speaking Competition – :  “There’s no such thing as a vote that doesn’t matter” – Barack Obama.

In today’s turbulent times, it is more important than ever to build a better future by voting in the EU Parliament Elections

Have your say at this year’s Europe Direct Soapbox competition and be in with a chance to win a  Samsung Tablet, sponsored by the European Commission Representation in Ireland.

The Waterford and South Eastern heat of this national competition takes place on Wednesday 22 November at 10am in The Large Room, City Hall in Waterford City.

Entry is open to all and contestants can compete in one of two categories: 16 and under; or 17 and over.  Each contestant has three minutes to present their arguments, convince the judges and persuade the audience. The winners in each category will receive a Samsung Tablet and go on to the National final in Dublin on Monday 27th November in the Royal College of Physicians (provisional date).

More information and application forms are available from Central Library on 051 849975 or email boshea@waterfordcouncil.ie or richardpower@waterfordcouncil.ie  You can also download these forms at Europe Direct – Waterford City & County Library Service (waterfordlibraries.ie)

The term soapbox originates in the use of an empty crate as a platform by speakers to give speeches, often impromptu, to passers-by from around the turn of the last century. The most famous location for soapbox oratory is Speakers Corner in Hyde Park, London, which has been a setting for public speaking since the 1870s.

Regional prizes and the overall prizes of €1,000 are sponsored by the European Commission Representation in Ireland.

Completed entries must be returned by 4.30pm on Monday 20 November to: boshea@waterfordcouncil.ie and richardpower@waterfordcouncil.ie or by post to Europe Direct Information Centre, Central Library, Lady Lane, Waterford City, X91 V045.

The Waterford Europe Direct Information Centre, based at Central Library, Lady Lane is a service which helps the public find answers to questions about the European Union. It offers information on all sorts of subjects related to the EU including your rights and opportunities as an EU citizen. It can provide direct responses to general inquiries and, if you have more detailed questions, signpost you to the best sources of information and advice at EU, national, regional and local levels.

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For more information contact Breda O’Shea or any staff member at Waterford Europe Direct Centre.

boshea@waterfordcouncil.ie and richardpower@waterfordcouncil.ie

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