Cork County Council Launches Europe Direct Centre at Carrigaline Library
Europe Direct Carrigaline has launched at Carrigaline Library, offering EU info, resources and a year-round events programme for all ages.
Carrigaline Library is now home to Europe Direct Carrigaline, a new EU information centre that has officially opened as part of a network of eight such centres in Ireland and more than four hundred across the European Union.
The centre will act as a local hub for conversations about Europe, offering residents information on EU policies, rights, opportunities and initiatives, alongside a programme of community events throughout the year.
Cllr. Bernard Moynihan, Mayor of the County of Cork, welcomed the launch:
"I am delighted to welcome the official opening of Europe Direct Carrigaline at Carrigaline Library. The centre will provide a valuable link between our local communities and the European Union, offering information, resources and opportunities for people to engage with issues that affect their daily lives. As we hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union this year, this launch is particularly significant. I encourage everyone to make use of this excellent new resource and take part in some of the events and activities on offer."
Michael McGrath, European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, said:
"It is a particular pleasure for me to officially open Europe Direct Carrigaline. Carrigaline is the place I call home and having had the privilege of representing this community at a local and national level for twenty years, I know this community very well. I am delighted to now see Carrigaline become home to this important European resource. Europe Direct is about bringing Europe closer to people, providing trusted information, creating opportunities for dialogue, and helping citizens understand the rights and opportunities that come with EU membership. I hope this centre will become a welcoming and vibrant place where people of all ages can engage with European issues and see how decisions made at EU level connect with their everyday lives here in Cork."
The centre offers a walk-in information point within the library, giving the public access to EU publications, resources and information, with staff on hand to guide visitors to further support through the Europe Direct telephone and email helpdesks.
Planned events include a European-themed public speaking competition, storytelling sessions, French language classes, and discussions on climate action and sustainability. Updates on upcoming events and activities will be shared via Europe Direct Carrigaline's social media channels.