[…]the structure of the Irish education system. “This would represent a real increase of €7,500 in fees for third level. It is unreasonable to think an increase in the current fee levels should be part of addressing third level funding. We need to look at the stakeholders who aren’t making the contribution they should be.” Kevin Donoghue, Union of Students in Ireland President, said, “Irish college fees are already the second highest in Europe. In supposed times of recovery, 30,000 people have already emigrated from Ireland this year alone. The USI said this loan system will only push people further […]
[…]Our new research shows that a student gains an average monthly income of €251 – €500 while their rent is also €251 – 500 a month. How could a student nurse or midwife afford rent at home and where they’re on placement? Pay incentives abroad are drawing our qualified nurses and midwives away”. Liam Conway, INMO Student and New Graduate Officer commented, “Students were very honest and truthful in this survey. The testimonials they gave and the replies to the survey should be a wakeup call to the HSE. They have a unique opportunity, which is not available to overseas […]
[…]Ireland (USI) has criticised recent suggestions to increase the registration fee by more than €1,000 and said the implications of this proposed increase include plunging students further into poverty, disabling social mobility, and increasing the gap between the rich and the poor. A paper prepared by officials at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for recently-appointed Minister Pascal Donohue said the increase of €1,000 in registration fees would be insufficient to solve the funding gap in third level education, and an even greater increase is needed. “Increasing the registration fee beyond €4,000 is a ludicrous proposal.” Kevin Donoghue, […]
[…]Union President, Chris Clifford has been elected President of the Union of Students in Ireland for 2023-2024. A Health and Leisure graduate hailing from Tralee, Chris was today elected by delegates representing students and Students’ Unions from across the island of Ireland at USI’s Comhdháil. Over 250 delegates are attending the four day congress in the Clayton Hotel, Sligo. After graduating from MTU Kerry, Chris was elected Education Officer in his Students’ Union and then went on to be elected SU President and re-elected to the position last year. Chris will take up the role with USI on July 1, […]
[…](May 27). Due to COVID-19 public health restrictions, USI Congress was held via Zoom with over 200 delegates voting online for the 2020-2021 Executive Team and numerous policies and motions. Congress was also streamed live on the USI website. There will be five new faces on the USI Executive Team for the year ahead with Clare Austick, Adam Clarke, Ciara Kealy, Megan O’Neill, and Gary Tobin being voted in by delegates. Speaking after her re-election, Lorna Fitzpatrick spoke of how, like Irish society in general, the USI will have unprecedented battles to face in the year ahead. She said: “Over […]
