Portarlington student represents Laois at National Soapbox Competition

Portarlington student  Aoibhe Hennessy proudly represented Laois at the National Europe Direct Soapbox Final held at the Royal College of Physicians, Dublin, on Monday, 1 December.

This year’s theme challenged participants to argue for or against: “Likes, Lies and Legal Limits – Is it time for the EU to ban social media for Under-16s?”. The Coláiste Íosagáin student earned her place in the final after winning the regional competition hosted by the Europe Direct Centre in the Midlands region (Laois, Offaly and Westmeath). At the national final, she joined 16 other talented speakers from across Ireland, each delivering a three-minute speech to persuade and impress the judges and audience.

Aoibhe participated in the 17 and over final against seven other finalists, who had won their regional competition.

READ NEXT: Laois life-saving firefighters honoured at family event in Portarlington

The Europe Direct Soapbox Competition, now in its 15th year, is inspired by the tradition of Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park, London. Organised by Libraries Ireland, it provides a platform for people across Ireland to debate topical European issues and showcase their public speaking skills.

Chair of the Judging Panel and Assistant Chief Executive, Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), Paula Butler commented: “Reaching the national final of the Europe Direct Soapbox Competition is an outstanding achievement, reflecting months of preparation and success in regional heats across Ireland. The standard of this year’s finalists was exceptional. Each speaker brought fresh, thought-provoking perspectives to a complex and timely topic. Their confidence, clarity, and passion for debate truly impressed the judges and demonstrated the value of open discussion on issues that matter to society."

The 2025 National Final was hosted by Political Adviser, EC Commission Representation, Joan Flanagan.

Joining Chair Paula Butler on the judging panel was: National Coordinator of Media Literacy Ireland Martina Chapman,
Senior Executive Librarian, Dún Laoghaire- Rathdown Libraries Lisa Murphy. Political Counsellor, European Commission Representation Ireland, Méabh de Búrca.