Europe Direct
The Europe Direct Information Centre based in Central Library, Waterford City, is one of a network of local contact points that serve as the direct link between you and the EU Institutions. The Europe Direct Information Centre is a service which helps you find answers to your questions about the European Union. The centre offers information on all sorts of subjects related to the EU including your rights and opportunities as an EU citizen and how to take advantage of them. It can provide direct responses to general inquiries and, if you have more detailed questions, signpost you to the best source of information and advice at EU, national, regional and local levels. The Europe Direct initiative was launched in Ireland in 2005. The European Commission wanted to create a network of accessible, local information centres in all member states. The mission of the network is to distribute information and advice about the European Union’s policies, actively promote local and regional debate about the European Union, allow the European institutions to disseminate local and regional information and give the public the opportunity to send feedback to the European Union institutions.
Europe Direct Waterford Regional Soapbox Competition 2026
This year’s topic is: ‘Culture is at the heart of what it means to be European. But is Ireland culturally closer to Strasbourg or Sydney?’ and the competition is open to all ages with contestants competing in one of two categories: ages 16 & under or ages 17 & over.
Entrants are invited to deliver a three-minute speech for or against the topic: ‘Culture is at the heart of what it means to be European. But is Ireland culturally closer to Strasbourg or Sydney?’
The Europe Direct Waterford Soapbox is the southeast regional heat of the National Europe Direct Soapbox Public Speaking competition organised by the Local Government Management Agency and regional prizes of an iPad or Samsung Tablet, are sponsored by the European Commission Representation. Regional winners will go on to represent their region in the national competition in Dublin to compete for €1,000 One4All vouchers.
The winners of both categories will be announced on the day of the event and invited to attend the National Final in Dublin. Runner up prizes will also be presented on the day.
To Enter:
- Download and complete the Europe Direct Soapbox Application 2026 and read the Europe Direct Soapbox Rules and Checklist 2026 or call into any of our branches.
- Completed Application Forms can be returned by email to Europe Direct Waterford at: europedirect@waterfordcouncil.ie or by post/hand to Europe Direct Waterford, Central Library, Lady Lane, Waterford, X91 VO45 by the closing date/time of Thursday 24th September 2026 at 4.00pm.
- Emailed application forms will be issued with a confirmation of receipt email. Please contact Central Library on 051 849975 if you don’t receive confirmation.
For more information contact Europe Direct Waterford at Central Library, email europedirect@waterfordcouncil.ie or phone 051 849975.
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