Third-level students across Ireland are set to walk out of lectures on Thursday morning (October 17) at 11.30am as part of a national protest organised by the Union of Students in Ireland and local Students’ Unions.
The National Student Walkout aims to highlight the anger and frustration students are feeling at the complete lack of measures in Budget 2025 to support them, and to remind TDs and candidates of the power of the student voice ahead of the upcoming general election.
Students that walk out of classes will meet at central spots on campus for rallies, led by their local Students’ Union team – members of the USI Coiste Gnó will also be on various campuses across the country (details below).
USI President, Chris Clifford said: “With the general election expected to be called any time now, USI launched our Student Manifesto on Monday so that no TD or candidate can say they don’t know what students need. We know students are working more hours than ever, are commuting long distances or are sleeping in cars or on friend’s sofas in order to attend college. This is affecting their academic performance, and it’s also affecting their mental health. Students are facing two serious crises now: accommodation/housing and mental health. We are now calling on all students to join the Walkout, tell decision makers enough is enough and show the power of the student voice.”
The main demands of the National Student Walkout are:
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Introduce protections for students living in digs
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Build affordable student accommodation
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Abolish the Student Contribution Charge
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Fund the full deficit in the HEI sector
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Funding to cover hidden costs
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Funding to increase counsellor to student ratios
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End precarious contracts
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Minimum wage to match living wage (including postgraduate stipends)
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Call an election now
Chris added: “USI has been out on campuses registering students to vote over the last 14 months, and we know students are angry and frustrated, and if TDs and general election candidates don’t support students and support their manifesto, we definitely will not be supporting them in the ballot box.”