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[…]Union of Students in Ireland stands in solidarity with Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union and the Trinity students who have set up an encampment for Palestine on the campus. USI also strongly condemns attempts by the college to fine the Students’ Union €214,000 for using their right to protest to demand the university cuts ties with Israel, as it carries out genocide against the Palestinian people. TCD Students’ Union and Trinity students have carried out a number of protests against the college’s links with Israel and against attempts by Trinity management to increase rents and fees for students, which […]
[…]student movement, is to stage demonstrations and direct actions to directly tackle Government on the student cost-of-living crisis. In the letter, which is attached, they say: “We can no longer afford to be quiet about the terrible conditions currently impacting students and staff that are breaking the futures of Ireland’s youth, so we are speaking out.” The six main demands are: Permanent funding to bring student counselling services to a 1:1000 ratio of counsellors to students Increase in core grant funding for institutions to plug the €307 million funding gap in the third-level education sector Abolish tuition fees and move to […]
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[…]which has been expected since last summer. Instead, on Friday Minister Harris stated: “This vision and policy will inform a new Student Accommodation Strategy, which will be published later this year,” and the Government statement said that the new policy was that “Government will fund the delivery of purpose built student accommodation.” (statement here) But this policy was already announced in November 2022, when Minister Harris said: “This landmark policy response will, for the first time, see the state providing financial support in the construction of on-site student accommodation, and underpins the policy commitments set out in Housing for All. I am […]
[…]of services because they think they are too busy. In its Pre-Budget Submission, and in a statement on World Suicide Prevention Day in September, USI called for Government to increase this funding to €11.5 million in order to reach safe counsellor to student ratios to help combat the mental health crisis currently affecting our young people, including our students. Colette continued: “These aren’t USI recommended ratios, they are the internationally accepted figures. And I think if anyone considers the struggles young people currently face and how many people they know that suffer from mental health issues, they would not think […]
[…]medical transition had made their lives ‘better’. Without change, this Government has blood on their hands.” USI calls on the National Gender Service; Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly; and Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, to implement the World Professional Association for Transgender Healthcare (WPATH) Standards of Care, which follow an informed consent model. There must be a stark improvement in the standards of Trans healthcare in Ireland, starting with following the informed consent model and allowing GPs to provide Hormone Replacement Therapy to their […]
The Union of Students in Ireland expresses its devastation and grief at the loss of all innocent lives due to the recent escalation of violence in Palestine, focused particularly on Gaza and on both sides of the Gazan border. USI condemns Israel’s disproportionate and retaliatory attacks on the people of Gaza and rejects the claims of ‘self-defence’ as justification for the collective punishment of Palestinian civilians. In line with USI policies and mandates, USI reiterates our utmost support for the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, and our strong opposition to the occupation of Palestine, which has continued to […]
[…]sure that they can access that help if they do reach out and that they’re not left struggling on the bottom of a waiting list. “But we do want to emphasis to students that even though counselling services are under-resourced and sometimes there are waiting lists, campus counselling services will set aside emergency appointments for students who are in urgent need for support. So don’t let waiting lists be a barrier to seeking help.” Supports available to students: Text Hello to 50808 – a free and anonymous text support service, available 24/7 Contact your college counselling service or Students’ Union Welfare […]
[…]at the bottom of this statement. The six areas highlighted by student representatives on the day, were: 1. Student accommodation 2. Student finances 3. Public transport 4. Postgraduate and international student supports 5. Ring-fenced mental health support funding 6. Funding for Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht (Gaeltacht placement for student teachers) USI Vice President for Campaigns, Zaid Al-Barghouthi said: “From reviewing the Summer Economic Statement released last week, we expect Budget 2024 to again contain a number of once-off measures for students and the third-level sector. While the asks we focused on for the Lobby Day and in our pre-Budget submission concentrate on getting the most for students from this once-off spending, we will […]
[…]innovation score has remained stagnant since 2015. The Bill should ensure the fair allocation and distribution of funding in the legislation and follow international standards of good practice that support the recruitment, training and career development of researchers. The regulatory architecture being created by the Bill lacks academic representation and puts the researcher out of formation, management and oversight of the new agency. Our experience with the funding agencies that exist has been quite poor. From sick and maternity leave to research funds, the research agencies have always closed their doors to students’ and postgraduate researchers’ concerns. There is nothing […]
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[…]students in USI affiliated colleges and universities took part in the Student Walkout. Commenting on the vast numbers shown in videos and photographs across social media today, USI President, Beth O’Reilly said USI wasn’t surprised by the numbers as the union is well aware of the depth of feeling on the issue. Beth said: “The support for today’s Student Walkout is indicative of the number of students that are experiencing accommodation and financial problems across Ireland. It used to be a case that every student knew someone that was struggling, but now nearly every student is struggling themselves. Students needed to take this action today. […]
[…]students to submit a video explaining their research and why it matters. Video entries are judged on the communication of the research project, how they engage the viewer, and in the originality and creativity of their presentation. David Nolan was judged the overall winner. David’s video, ‘Sex Differences in Adaptation to Exercise,’ explains their doctoral project at the School of Health & Human Performance, Dublin City University. The video focuses on the broad area of sex-differences in adaptation to exercise, focusing on female specific considerations which we study through the lens of female rugby. Why Research Matters Video Competition 2022 […]
[…]of Students in Ireland. USI and Students’ Unions across Ireland have fought hard for this reduction and today’s announcement is recognition of the extremely high cost of college in Ireland. However, while the ‘once-off’ €1,000 reduction is of course welcome, students are left not knowing where they stand for the future. And the reduction comes too late for students who have already deferred their places in college this year because they could not afford the costs. USI President, Beth O’Reilly said: “Today’s Budget was a missed opportunity to permanently reduce the Student Contribution Charge and start the move towards abolishing […]
[…]call is open to all postgraduates registered to a higher education institution on the island of Ireland, regardless of funding or area of research. How to Apply To participate in the competition, we are asking you to create a video about the research that you are doing, discussing why you are doing this research, what you have learned or hope to learn, and why you think this research matters. Upon completion of your video, upload it to your preferred hosting service (e.g., YouTube) and then fill out this short application form to enter. Do not forget to include the link […]
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[…]of pay. “The announcement from the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science that 400 doctoral students will be recruited through a public-private partnership on a €28,000 annual stipend, without increasing the pay for the 10,000 existing postgraduate research students, would be completely inequitable and unfair. This open letter, which I have signed on behalf of USI, calls for all stipends to be increased to €28,000 in order to address inflation, the housing and cost-of-living crises, and in recognition of the new government valuation on PhD-level research as seen in their most recent PhD funding initiative.” The […]
[…] All Day Women Lead 2022 11-12 February 2022 - Register free […]
[…]22, 2022. The below documents lay out the positions available and the process for seeking nomination and election. Below that are the role descriptions for each position. The President: Responsible for overall work of the organisation and delegating work and areas of policy to other members of the Executive Team. Chief spokesperson for the organisation Manages the human resources of the Union Responsible for drafting annual budget in consultation with Finance Committee Reporting work of the Union to National Council and Congress Chairs the Presidents’ Working Group at National Council. Vice President for Academic Affairs: Policy officer with anything related […]
[…]three regional protests are a chance for students to get out show the level of anger and frustration they are feeling. Ahead of the protests, USI will travel around the country with a Cost of College Roadshow to talk to students on the ground about the campaign and ensure their stories and views are represented in the actions.” The Main demands of the Cost of College campaign are: • Abolition of the €3,000 student contribution charge • Reform of the SUSI grant system to ensure that students are fairly assessed, and the income thresholds increased • Eradication of all financial […]
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[…]made this year and the same again in the next two budgets. “USI has also been demanding action on student accommodation, but with no action taken in this area by Government in recent years, the crisis is now the worst we have seen. Students cannot get accommodation, and many have started this semester making long commutes, sleeping on couches, and staying in hostels or hotels not knowing if they will be able to continue with their courses. And yet again places in third-level institutions have been increased by 3,300 without any action on student accommodation, so we have no idea […]
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[…]This would allow businesses to take legal action against the state for punitive damages based on the loss of revenue from Social Policy passed by the Government. Congress Notes with Immediate Concern: That the deal is likely to go through in the next couple of weeks and that USI currently does not have a policy based on CETA, however, USI is committed to abolishing direct provision, therefore, the CETA agreement, would slow down, if not completely prevent Direct Provision from being abolished meaningfully with external partners, being Canadian based companies. Congress Fiercely Opposes: That this agreement will bring about good, […]
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[…]to Ukrainian citizens. The Coiste Gnó to lobby the Department of Higher and Further Education and Skills for students who were studying in Ukraine to be able to continue their studies in Ireland. The Coiste Gnó to lobby the Department of Higher and Further Education and Skills for recognition to be given to students for prior learning prior to arriving in Ireland. USI to continue to work with stakeholders to expand our capacity in Higher level Education to incorporate as many refugee students as possible. 2022 EM (IA) 9: Military Expansion and NATO Motion Proposed by UCC Students’ Union […]
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[…]must recount their experience of abuse, whether a complaining student can have someone speak on their behalf, whether the complaining student must face their accused, giving fair warning to the complaining student of exactly when the accused will be notified of the case against them and so on. A support worker should be assigned to assist students who are taking a complaint through the disciplinary process. This role of the worker should include helping students to write and edit complaints and appeals; assisting students to compile supporting documentation; accompanying students to disciplinary hearings; assisting students in communicating with the disciplinary […]
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[…]with the Irish Research Council, the Union of Students in Ireland is delighted to once again run the #WhyResearchMatters competition. The value of research cannot be understated, it is through research that we continue to grow both as individuals and as a society, Ireland has a reputation for great research, and this competition aims to showcase the work of Ireland’s researchers for the world to see. Postgraduates from any background can participate in this competition. To compete in the competition, we are asking you to create a video about the research that you are doing, discussing why you’re doing this […]
[…]Minister Stephen Donnelly and Minister Mary Butler, We write to you on behalf of 374, 000 students on World Eating Disorder Day asking you to urgently assess the inadequate, under-resourced and underfunded eating disorder support services available in Ireland, with the intention of improving the services rapidly to meet the needs of the population. Eating disorders are more common than we think with many third level students developing eating disorders over the duration of their college terms. Bodywhys, the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, reported that there has been a significant increase in people seeking their services, particularly the online […]
[…]judges from a variety of backgrounds including the community and voluntary sector, Higher Education and local media. Winners were recognised across a variety of categories including Club/Society of the Year, Academic Representative of the Year, Outstanding Mental Health Activism and Students’ Union Team of the Year. Commenting on the awards, USI Deputy President and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Kevin McStravock said: “The SAAIs recognise the incredible commitment of Students’ Unions, student activists and student-led organisations across Ireland in improving the lives of students, not just on campus but in wider society. Despite all the challenges COVID-19 posed for them, […]
[…]also outlined how it believes no one should be financially disadvantaged for returning to education and so the current rules about repeat periods of study should also be removed. USI Submission to Department of Further & Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science SUSI […]
[…]not looking like it was designed to). Inside Baseball: The core of the site has been updated and the taxonomical framework has been revised. We’ve moved from the theme ‘Extra’ to the Divi framework and moved the site to a faster host. Under the bonnet we’re trying to optimise images and load times, generate caches of regularly accessed files and purge old non-display data which was probably very useful at some point but now is just slowing things down. The security of the site has been improved and backups are now being fully automated. In the back end a synchronised […]
Speech bubbles with ‘News Release […]
[…]from home, not meeting friends and family, lost jobs, and lost thousands of euro for accommodation they could not use. Therefore, it is upsetting and disappointing for students, USI and Students’ Unions across the island to see the public health guidelines being broken in such a manner by a small minority of students. USI notes the statement from the Irish Universities Association thanking the vast majority of students who are abiding by the public health guidelines and reiterating an appeal to all students to continue to abide by the guidelines. USI and its members also call on all students to stand together […]
[…]from home, not meeting friends and family, lost jobs, and lost thousands of euro for accommodation they could not use. Therefore, it is upsetting and disappointing for students, USI and Students’ Unions across the island to see the public health guidelines being broken in such a manner by a small minority of students. USI notes the statement from the Irish Universities Association thanking the vast majority of students who are abiding by the public health guidelines and reiterating an appeal to all students to continue to abide by the guidelines. USI and its members also call on all students to stand together […]
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[…]to put in place alternative arrangements that enable them to successfully progress in their education and to meet the standards of proficiency for the profession. You can demonstrate your support through the following actions: Share this with your Social Care Department and encourage them to support you in lobbying the ministers and CORU to convene urgent discussions with all key stakeholders Share this open letter, and encourage peers, family and friends to share it using the #CareForSocialCare Complete this form and share your stories as a social care student Contact your TDs and senators and urge them to raise this […]
[…]Steering group chaired by the Department of Further & Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science is requesting submissions from parties interested in sharing their activities or research that will support the goals of the Working Group. The aim of the working group is to support student and learner wellbeing and engagement during COVID-19. We recognise there are many challenges facing students and we want to help address those challenges. There are many organisations and groups undertaking research or running programmes and initiatives that would be beneficial for the Working Group to be aware of as we progress our work. If […]
12/02/2021 - 13/02/2021 10:00 am - 2:30 pm EMpower […]
05/02/2021 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Mature Students' Seminar […]
[…]Grant Scheme announced today by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, according to the Union of Students in Ireland. Welcoming news of a wide-ranging review of the grants operated by SUSI, USI has called for thorough engagement with stakeholders including students and their representatives. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said: “USI has been campaigning for years for a full review of the SUSI support scheme. SUSI is a vital part of ensuring students have access to third level education but at the moment it does not fully meet the needs of students. So we welcome this […]
[…]many months. What has happened so far? Solidarity-PBP submitted a motion in November calling on the Government to pay student nurses and midwives undertaking placement during the current pandemic, and to work on the introduction of financial supports on a more sustainable basis. This motion was supported by the entire opposition. The Government voted unanimously against this motion and tabled an amendment which deleted references to paying student nurses and midwives. Labour has also recently published a bill aimed at convincing the Government to pay student nurses and midwives. The Government has since stated that they are currently reviewing the allowances available to student nurses and midwives, and that they […]
[…]you. (If they’ve previously raised this issue, reference this) – We’ve provided info on the other page about Government representatives who have previously raised the issues affecting student nurses & midwives in the Oireachtas and when they did. Highlighting your awareness of this shows how passionate and informed you are about the issue. Request specific action – What do you hope to get out of the email – do you want a meeting to discuss it further? Do you want clarification from them on their position? If they’re from one of the Government parties (Fine Gael/Fianna Fáil/Green Party) you might wish to ask them […]
Union of Students in Ireland statement The abusive leaking and sharing of sexual images and videos without consent is condemned by the Union of Students in Ireland and we are encouraging the victims involved to use the range of services available if needed at this time or in future. USI is also calling for legislation to make image-based sexual abuse illegal to be implemented immediately to protect individuals from such future incidents of non-consensual sharing and publication. While this behaviour is sexual abuse, it is not currently illegal in Ireland and there is no legal protection in place for those […]
Livestream Event: I wish I could speak Irish but… The livestream has ended. The video of the conversation will be posted on usi.ie as soon as it is edited. Cád é seo? Ócáid dátheangach d’fhoghlaimeoirí na Gaeilge faoi na bealaí éagsúla chun teanga a fhoghlaim, leideanna, acmhainní, agus na buntáistí a bhaineann leis an nGaeilge a fhoghlaim. Beidh Osgur Ó Ciardha mar chathaoirleach ar an bpainéal cainte agus beidh an file aitheanta, Ciara Ní É, Feidhmeannach Ballraíochta agus Oideachais le Conradh na Gaeilge, Ciarán Wadd, agus Teagascóir Gaeilge le ICUF, Rút Ní Theimhneáin, páírteach sa phainéal chomh maith. Bígí […]
[…]after your mental health is intrinsic to overall well-being. USI is also welcoming the publication on the day of the National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework, which the union and its members were proud to be involved in producing. The focus of USI actions on World Mental Health Day is support and connecting with one another – from raising awareness of services that are available to students and the wider population, to checking-in with family, friends and the wider college community, to reaching out and asking for professional help when needed. USI sat on the working group and […]
[…]and essential student supports must be put in place by Government and institutions and a focus put on online teaching and learning in order to provide clarity for the rest of this semester, according to the Union of Students in Ireland. Having consulted USI’s member organisations and considered an independent report carried out in the UK on COVID-19 outbreaks among students there, USI says a decision needs to be made to keep college learning online – except for courses that necessitate in person delivery – while ensuring students are properly supported. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick explained that students and the […]
[…]has created a purple Light Up Recovery graphic which it is asking students and others to share on their social media feeds to highlight the importance of celebrating and supporting people through recovery from drug and alcohol dependence. Previously, Recovery Day has been celebrated in communities through local rallies, walks, and other events. However, with everyone staying at home this year, the aim of today is to bring people together from all over the world who are in recovery from all addictions on the same day. Prominent buildings throughout Ireland, including Trinity College and the TU Dublin Grangegorman campus, will […]
[…]funding for student mental health services. USI Vice President for Welfare, Clare Austick said: “On World Suicide Prevention Day 2020, the USI and all its members remember all those who have died by suicide and their families, friends and loved ones who have been affected. Suicide is devastating and it is so important that as many people as possible know the signs and are aware of the supports and resources that are available if they or those close to them are having suicidal thoughts. It is ok to be not ok, and it is ok to ask for help.” “We […]
[…]and how that information is used and how to control the cookie preferences. For further information on how we use, store and keep your personal data secure, see our Privacy Policy. You can at any time change or withdraw your consent from the Cookie Declaration on our website. Learn more about who we are, how you can contact us and how we process personal data in our Privacy Policy. Your consent applies to the following domains: usi.ie What are cookies ? Cookies are small text files that are used to store small pieces of information. The cookies are stored on […]
[…]and how that information is used and how to control the cookie preferences. For further information on how we use, store and keep your personal data secure, see our Privacy Policy. You can at any time change or withdraw your consent from the Cookie Declaration on our website. Learn more about who we are, how you can contact us and how we process personal data in our Privacy Policy. Your consent applies to the following domains: usi.ie What are cookies ? Cookies are small text files that are used to store small pieces of information. The cookies are stored on […]
[…]‘Investing in Education in a Post COVID world’ hosted by the Education Futures Coalition and the Education division of ICTU in which speakers outlined their views for the future of the sector. According to Fitzpatrick, a review of the student funding system is urgently required to ensure that those who need support to attend college can do so without worrying about the financial costs and instead concentrating on the academic requirements of their chosen course. Addressing the need for a revised funding model for the sector, she lamented education institutions being forced to behave as businesses and said: “The strategy […]
[…]table discussion with the Minister in July and is part of the group putting together a proposal on the actions needed to tackle the issue among college and university students across Ireland. At that time, the Minister committed to holding the institutions to account on what they are doing about this issue and Thursday’s report reiterates how important it is that that happens. “As Sexual Experiences Survey report co-author, Dr Lorraine Burke, said at its launch: Ireland has the opportunity to take a stand on sexual violence and harassment, to make a difference in the lives of students, and to […]
[…]by the Union of Students in Ireland. Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris had previously announced that €3 million would be provided for student mental health services, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, for higher education institutions currently planning to re-open for the new academic year. The USI had sought clarity on whether this was in addition to the €2 million announced for 2020 by previous Minister, Mary Mitchell O’Connor. Minister Harris has confirmed the full package is €5 million, with an extra €3 million being allocated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Welcoming the […]
[…]by the Union of Students in Ireland. Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris had previously announced that €3 million would be provided for student mental health services, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, for higher education institutions currently planning to re-open for the new academic year. The USI had sought clarity on whether this was in addition to the €2 million announced for 2020 by previous Minister, Mary Mitchell O’Connor. Minister Harris has confirmed the full package is €5 million, with an extra €3 million being allocated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Welcoming the […]
[…]Justice, Helen McEntee to immediately halt the deportation of the two students who faced prosecution and violence before seeking asylum in Ireland and the urgent abolishment of the oppressive system of Direct Provision. Last week, Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, Roderic O’Gorman said he wanted to take the “meanness” out of Direct Provision. But USI believes the system is fundamentally racist and oppressive to asylum seekers and must be ended now and replaced with a humane system that values dignity over profit. The Programme for Government commits to ending Direct Provision and not reformatting it or making it less mean. […]
[…]country are prepared to support all students in the new academic year.” There are six new faces on the USI Executive this year, with Clare Austick, Adam Clarke, Ellen Fearon, Ciara Kealy, Megan O’Neill and Gary Tobin all joining the team. Lorna Fitzpatrick remains President having been elected to a second term, while Kevin McStravock and Clíodhna Ní Dhufaigh both stay in the roles of Academic Affairs and Gaeilge Vice Presidents, respectively. Last year’s Vice President for the BMW Region Marie Lyons was elected to Equality and Citizenship for this year, while former Dublin Region Vice President, Craig McHugh is […]
Why Research Matters is a postgraduate video competition run by the Union of Students in Ireland and sponsored by the Irish Research Council. The goal is to put the creative minds of the island’s postgraduate research community to work to produce a short video presentation about your research, and why it matters. Here our Vice President for Postgraduate Affairs, Sara Dowling, breaks down the Open Call criteria with some tips to include. While we all remain at home it can be difficult to maintain the same level of continuity with our work, so why not remind yourselves and the country about […]
Why Research Matters is a postgraduate video competition run by the Union of Students in Ireland and sponsored by the Irish Research Council. The goal is to put the creative minds of the island’s postgraduate research community to work to produce a short video presentation about your research, and why it matters. While we all remain at home it can be difficult to maintain the same level of continuity with our work, so why not remind yourselves and the country about the value of what you do and how it may someday advance knowledge and change lives? This call opens […]
[…]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 the past few days we have discussed the current crisis and referred to the issues that our members will face in […]
[…]Equality in Ireland in 2015, the Union of Students in Ireland has launched an online archive on the fifth anniversary of voting in the referendum. Some 30,000 young people registered to vote in the Marriage Equality referendum and the USI has compiled reports, photographs, and videos to tell the story of the impact student activists had in organising the Yes vote. Speaking of the pride students feel in the role they played in changing the country for the better, USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick says: “On the fifth anniversary of when we ‘Made Grá The Law’ and our country became a […]
[…]a million different ways you could tell the story of Marriage Equality in Ireland. When reflecting on the five year passing of the referendum, we knew the student movement had some incredible stories to share. So we put together this archive to tell the story of student activists who traversed the country to change the hearts and minds of the Irish population. This is the story of the 30,000 young people who registered to vote ahead of the referendum, recognising their chance to make a better Ireland for the future. It’s the story of the young LGBT+ couples who came […]
[…]college next year” and are “extremely stressed” due to the lack of refunds for accommodation they now cannot use. In association with its Students’ Union members across Ireland, the USI has been campaigning for the operators of all student accommodation to refund students for accommodation they cannot use for the remainder of the academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to this campaign, the USI had been inundated with messages from students who are losing thousands of Euro in rent they had to pre-pay. And in order to publicly highlight the accommodation issues students are facing due to […]
[…]people’s homes due to the current public health measures. There’s lots more information and support available if you need it. Mental health If you feel like you’re using alcohol to numb your emotions because of stress, contact your college counselling services to arrange an appointment to talk to someone For useful resources on your mental health go to the ‘Mind Your Mental Health’ on usi.ie HSE’s www.yourmentalhealth.ie has specific advice on how to mind your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak You may have grown up with a parent or older sibling with substance use problems which may be affecting […]
[…]vacant rooms could also be used to house other vulnerable students such as those working on the frontline during the pandemic including student nurses, pharmacists and those working in supermarkets and other essential jobs. A lot of students have also been told to leave digs and have nowhere else to go.” The USI is also calling for this accommodation to be provided at a highly subsidised rate or free of charge depending on the circumstances of the students involved. Megan explained: “A lot of the students that need this wouldn’t be in a position to pay the usual rents or […]
[…]USI launches an online consultation for Connecting Minds to gather students together for a discussion on various topics related to student mental health in higher education, which follows on from our online Connecting Minds event two weeks ago. “Also, last night, local SU officers with the support of USI, held an online quiz for all elected officers across the island to raise funds for Feed Our Heroes and the total raised currently stands […]
[…]said: “Along with the Students’ Unions in affected colleges and universities, we are calling on these companies to show some compassion to students that are in very difficult circumstances. Students are out of college, they’ve lost jobs, had to move home and are trying to keep up their study online and keep themselves healthy while supporting family and friends who are more vulnerable. Some students who have had to move home have underlying health conditions themselves and recognise it is safer for them to be able to self-isolate away from their shared student accommodation. Some students had very tough decisions to […]
[…]of healthcare departments have closed down, students have been asked to leave college accommodation and digs, and some private public transport that many students rely on has been pulled. “Along with the INMO, we are calling for all student nurses and midwives on placement to be supported financially during this pandemic as many are unable to continue with part-time work because they are at risk of carrying and spreading the virus while supporting the health system during this pandemic.” Student nurses are also concerned about being out of work for long periods while waiting to be tested for the virus, […]
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[…]aligned with our political and brand priorities using interactive and creative content. Moderation and in depth reporting to a Senior Management level required. Includes low level content management for website. Tasks Co-ordinate, prepare and implement annual plans for PR and Communications activity Working with the President and Executive Team, co-ordinate and implement the campaigns calendar. Work to raise the profile and general awareness of USI; identifying suitable PR stories, writing and distributing press releases, identifying new audiences and creative tactics to ensure positive outcomes and coverage for USI related activities and events Support the communications and leverage existing events such […]
[…]aligned with our political and brand priorities using interactive and creative content. Moderation and in depth reporting to a Senior Management level required. Includes low level content management for website. Tasks Co-ordinate, prepare and implement annual plans for PR and Communications activity Working with the President and Executive Team, co-ordinate and implement the campaigns calendar. Work to raise the profile and general awareness of USI; identifying suitable PR stories, writing and distributing press releases, identifying new audiences and creative tactics to ensure positive outcomes and coverage for USI related activities and events Support the communications and leverage existing events such […]
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[…]low wage sectors where the workers are insufficiently organised. Currently JLCs set minimum conditions and rates of pay for low paid sectors of the workforce. However, there has been resistance by employers to the establishment of a JLC in the hotel and hospitality industries. In 2016, the EuroStudent survey which received 16,866 valid responses from students in Ireland, highlighted that over three-quarters (77%) of all part-time students indicated they work regularly throughout term-time. Full-time students indicated that 27% of them work regularly during term-time, with 19% doing occasional work during term-time. The most common fields for students in Ireland […]
[…]low wage sectors where the workers are insufficiently organised. Currently JLCs set minimum conditions and rates of pay for low paid sectors of the workforce. However, there has been resistance by employers to the establishment of a JLC in the hotel and hospitality industries. In 2016, the EuroStudent survey which received 16,866 valid responses from students in Ireland, highlighted that over three-quarters (77%) of all part-time students indicated they work regularly throughout term-time. Full-time students indicated that 27% of them work regularly during term-time, with 19% doing occasional work during term-time. The most common fields for students in Ireland […]
[…]with respect in their workplace, it is of highest importance that HEI’s take into consideration the challenges facing students at postgraduate level and put the proper procedures in place as per the USI-SIPTU Postgraduate Charter.” USI Vice President for Postgraduate Affairs, Sara Dowling said: “Postgraduates in Ireland face a dangerous grey area when it comes to their representation and rights protections. They are often without access to appropriate work supports, sufficient pay or proper recognition. In Ireland we stress the crucial importance of Postgraduates within our professional and economical backdrop – yet continue to undermine and take advantage of them […]
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[…]potential for even greater cooperation between SIPTU and USI and the wider trade union movement on the great issues that affect students, workers and […]
[…]potential for even greater cooperation between SIPTU and USI and the wider trade union movement on the great issues that affect students, workers and […]
Break The Barriers (USI Promo […]
[…]reflect the experience of younger drivers and students in particular. Students are reporting to the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) that they are being forced to drop out of college because they cannot afford to insure a car to commute, having already been forced out of the accommodation market by spiralling rents. As part of their campaign to address this major cost of attending college, the USI, representing over 374,000 members, has voted to join the Alliance for Insurance Reform. The Alliance for Insurance Reform brings together 30 civic and business organisations from across Ireland, representing over […]
[…]in inclusive activism was evident in his development of the 1976 Peace People’s Declaration and the organisation’s series of enormous cross-community rallies across Ireland and the UK – rallies which have been inspirational to the student movement and peace movements around the world ever since. Ciarán’s work to delegitimise violence, promote intercommunity solidarity across sectarian lines and seek to unite people of good will in pursuit of peace is as shining a testament to his values as can be imagined. We know that those values can guide us and others in the pursuit of peace. Our thoughts are with […]
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[…]members will receive training from NStEP, QQI and USI on quality assurance in Irish Higher Education and quality review procedures. The Student QA Reviewer’s Pool is made up of students trained by QQI and USI to sit on review panels and ensure the student perspective is evident throughout quality assurance in Ireland. Student Reviewers are paid for their time on panels and are reimbursed for expenses. 2019 Call for Reviewers To apply please complete the form found here: National Student QA Reviewer’s Pool Application For further information contact academicaffairs@usi.ie National Student QA Reviewer Pool Training The Pool training will be […]
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[…]to take responsibility for the way in which they live and encourages them to reduce their impact on the environment and associated costs. We can all learn from these initiatives and it is by getting students and staff to engage that we will start to see how small changes in the way we things do can make a big difference”. After filming a new set of videos with advice when searching for accommodation (watch this space!), the Student Switch Off team, along with some of its Ambassadors got an extra treat when they joined our sponsors ‘Ben & Jerrys’ Ice cream for a […]
[…]protecting education as a public good. The Union of Students in Ireland are calling upon the Irish Government to include the right to third-level education in the Higher Education Authority Bill 2020, currently being considered by the Department of Education. This comes after a country-wide student call for access to education, backed up by a motion unanimously passed at USI’s Annual Congress, 2019. At present, despite universal access to secondary education, there is only constitutional provision for primary education. This is deemed unacceptable by the student movement, and the Union of Students in Ireland demand that education be […]
[…]SIPTU for those employees in membership of the Union, but the company has shut down discussion on the Labour Court recommendations. The company’s human rights policy states ‘where employees are represented by a legally recognised union, we are committed to establishing a constructive dialogue with their freely chosen representatives. The company is committed to bargaining in good faith with such representatives.’ The company are clearly in breach of their own human rights policy by failing to engage in collective bargaining with SIPTU and its members. There has been serious escalations in Trade Union activity due to the blocking of unionising […]
[…]and then through the Seanad. The Union of Students in Ireland and it’s members were commended on the work done thus far on the matter around the table of the Oireachtas Housing Committee. The student movement has been a driving force behind this change, having had representatives on the Oireachtas Housing Committee twice this year. USI President, Síona Cahill welcomes the news stating; “Students have been suffering at the hands of rogue landlords and a crushingly expensive rental market from the moment that the housing market began to rise again. It is dispicable that some of the most vulnerable people […]
[…]Union Presidents calling for immediate action from the Government on publicly funded education and increases to student supports on the 11th March, 2019. Together, we are calling on the Government to act on publicly funded education, and to bring SUSI grants in line with the soaring cost of living and rents. Join us on campuses across Ireland for our lunchtime action on […]
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[…]president Síona Cahill reacted to the news, saying: “The Oireachtas committee on the eighth amendment was clear that access to contraception needed to be immediately reviewed, particularly regarding cost. Students as a cohort have already been failed by a lack of sexual health education at post-primary level, and we are still being failed when it comes to actual access to contraceptives, and cost is most certainly a barrier.” The USI believes that the ability to choose contraception is imperative for all students and those who are sexually active. Siona continued: “What is imperative here is the […]
[…]Union of Students in Ireland have partnered up with Fairtrade Ireland for two weeks of inspiration on global fair trade. Events across Ireland will showcase the enormous growth of Fair Trade products available in Ireland and highlight the work still to come in promoting fairer Ireland. As part of the fortnight, Fairtrade Ireland have organised a speaker tour with two speakers ;Sara Montoya, a international Business student from the COOPCAFTER coffee co-op in Colombia and Blas Arismendis Marcelinos for the BANELINO bananas co-op in the Dominican Republic. They will be visiting towns and third level institutions across Ireland to speak […]
[…]an election in 2019? The next Elections to the European Parliament are expected to be held on the 23-26 May 2019. A total of 751 Members of the European Parliament currently represent some 500 million people from 28 member states Did you know that voting at EU eu level is actually easy? In the Republic of Ireland MEPs are elected via Single Transferable Vote which is conducted by ranked voting in multi-seat constituencies Each voter has a single vote and can allocate this vote to their most preferred candidate This voting system is used in an attempt to limit “wasted” […]
[…]students in Europe and enhance their and the EC’s understanding of the dynamics of digitisation and its impact on our economic and societal developments. Students wishing to participate in this Challenge are invited to write a 250 word contribution “What would you have talked about if you had been a speaker?” on one of the four issues of the conference. Participating students are invited to send their texts before January 31, 2019. A jury of DG Competition officials will select the best three entries for each panel category. Entries will be assessed on analysis and originality and on their relevance […]
[…]can see firsthand the exploitative and cruel practices international and postgraduate students are on the receiving end of in Irish Higher Education. International students will be arriving back to Ireland later in the Summer and face significant barriers to accessing accommodation and affordable living with these fee increases piling on the pressure. Meanwhile postgrads are again exploited to fill Institutional coffers, disregarding the huge contributions they make to academic life.” Shane De Rís, President of Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union, stated that: “College has completely undermined the fee certainty agreement it approved by introducing these fee rises. Students, hit with […]
[…]in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to travel home to vote in the referendum on the Eighth Amendment on May 25th. Speaking about campaign, USI President Michael Kerrigan said: “Any Irish citizens studying in the UK can get in touch with their Students’ Union and avail of a travel bursary fund that Students’ Unions can apply to. Students can get between £55 and £110 to pay for the flights home to vote ‘Yes’ on May 25th” Olivia Potter-Hughes, NUS-USI President said: “We hope that this will inspire many students across the UK to join this fight for the shared […]
[…]our students and the staff in our institutions Brexit is an impending nightmare, and with no deal on the substantive points of the border or the Customs Union any discussion on the impact Brexit will have on education seems far off. Decision makers must begin to consider education in more detail, and importantly, publicly place it on the agenda. It’s vital that issues of education are not sidelined to mere talking points on the eve of a deal. However, the student movement recognises that without a deal on a frictionless border, freedom of movement, and securing no diminution of rights […]
[…]Minister was addressing students who were demonstrating against the lack of regulation on the cost of student accommodation organised by DCU Students’ Union. The Minister of State also went on to discuss additional investment for higher education from the most recent budget. Speaking after the Minister’s remarks, USI President Michael Kerrigan said: “Students across Ireland will welcome the clearest indication yet on the thinking of the government on student loans. We’re keen to have the Minister clarify her sense of ‘the near future’ and to have the government confirm this formally on the record in Leinster House.” […]
[…]our creative skills for a good cause,if one person sees this campaign and changes their mindset on consent,then we’ve succeeded as designers.” LIT Students’ Union President, Philip Desmond, said: “A massive congratulations to Hazel Curtis and Sarah Egan for designing and developing such a phenomenal consent campaign. The #GetConsent campaign will now be rolled out on a national scale, and everyone here in LIT Students’ Union are really excited about that. Consent has been a very visible issue in recent times across the island of Ireland, but consent has always been an issue even if it has been silent or […]
[…]our creative skills for a good cause,if one person sees this campaign and changes their mindset on consent,then we’ve succeeded as designers.” LIT Students’ Union President, Philip Desmond, said: “A massive congratulations to Hazel Curtis and Sarah Egan for designing and developing such a phenomenal consent campaign. The #GetConsent campaign will now be rolled out on a national scale, and everyone here in LIT Students’ Union are really excited about that. Consent has been a very visible issue in recent times across the island of Ireland, but consent has always been an issue even if it has been silent or […]
[…]and students of all political opinions and none in Northern Ireland for peace and a future built on mutual respect – their desire for that future and their determination to help form it, are undiminished. On this historic occasion, recognising that the work of building peace is never over, we wish our colleagues in NUS-USI every success in their endeavours to foster the peace they helped secure; we hope that students striving for an end to violent conflicts around the globe find strength in the example of the Good Friday […]
[…]movement for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) against Israel, until it ends the occupation and complies with international law. Speaking after the vote, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “The students of Ireland have today made the historic decision to support the people of Palestine. This movement attempts to exert economic and political pressure on Israel until it’s illegal siege of Gaza and its illegal occupation of the West Bank, and agrees to abide by International law and all UN Resolutions against it.” Robert Murtagh from Queen’s University Belfast Students’ Union, the student who proposed the motion, said, “I’m happy to […]
[…]Kerrigan welcomed the news, saying: “Student activists of all political views and all positions on the subject of the referendum will be happy that their voices will be heard on this defining issue of our time. There was certainly a push to prevent students being able to express their strongly held views on the 8th Amendment. Every campus in the country which has asked its students by way of referendum has had overwhelming responses to call for a repeal of this amendment. The student movement has historically led the discussion on reproductive rights and healthcare in this country, and we […]
[…]of ‘An Focloir Aiteach’ as a truly defining moment for gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation in Ireland. In recent times, Ireland has developed a reputation as something of a world leader on LGBT rights, particularly with the introduction of marriage equality and our groundbreaking Gender Recognition Act. Yet how we express our identity as LGBT people and and how we express our Irish identity often seemed like separate, rather than intersecting, areas of Irish life. This list, which includes such terms as Trasinscneach (Transgender) and Neamh-dhénártha (Non-Binary), highlights the vibrancy and inclusivity of the Irish language for use […]
[…]campaign. USI is the national representative body for the 374,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland. USI works to improve and protect the lives of students every day on academic and social issues through campaigns, training and […]
[…]service. All VideoDoc doctors are Irish Medical Council registered with at least two years on the Specialist Register and have been fully trained to provide remote health services. VideoDoc already meets the requirements of the GDPR regulations. Full disclosure: Article edited to reflect change in […]
[…]events like Europe’s largest LGBTQ student training event in Europe, Pink Training and sits on the LGBTI Youth Strategy Oversight Committee. Speaking at the ceremony, Cahill said, ‘I went to my first GALAS to support Senator Averil Power in 2014 for Politician of the Year, as a young woman who wasn’t out to myself, never mind anyone else. I sat in a room full of amazing people who were successful and hard working across all parts of the LGBT+ community, and I aspired to contribute in some way myself as soon as I was ready. ‘I went from 0-60km from […]
[…]‘new life’ in third level education we are asking them to consider making a commitment to pass on the ‘Gift of Life’ by saying YES to Organ Donation and discussing their wishes with family.’ Students should know that your “next-of-kin” will have the final decision on donation. Students are being urged to let them know your wishes now. The range of organs and tissue currently used for transplantation include the kidneys, heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, corneas, heart valves, bones and tendons, small bowel and skin. Because transplantation is now so successful, more and more patients have a chance of benefiting […]
[…]‘new life’ in third level education we are asking them to consider making a commitment to pass on the ‘Gift of Life’ by saying YES to Organ Donation and discussing their wishes with family.’ Students should know that your “next-of-kin” will have the final decision on donation. Students are being urged to let them know your wishes now. The range of organs and tissue currently used for transplantation include the kidneys, heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, corneas, heart valves, bones and tendons, small bowel and skin. Because transplantation is now so successful, more and more patients have a chance of benefiting […]
[…]supports, and not on tax cuts’, Says USI The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is calling on the Government to invest in third-level mental health counselling services by ring-fencing €3m per annum to tackle future mental health crisis on campus. The urgent call comes ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10th as tax cuts dominate the outcomes of Budget 2018 due to be released tomorrow by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe. USI President Michael Kerrigan said, ‘Budget 2018 should focus on improving mental health supports, and not on tax cuts. Waiting lists for on third-level counselling services are […]
[…]students to Dublin on Wednesday the 4th of October demanding Minister for Education Richard Bruton delivers a timeline on the future of higher education funding. It has been announced by the Minister for Education that there will be no long-term outline of a third-level funding model in next week’s budget. The demonstration left Custom House Quay at 1pm and marched to the Department of the Taoiseach. Second-level student Jane Hayes-Nally from Cork, IT Tallaght lecturer Dr Martin Marjoram, and parent Annette Quijney from Dublin were some of the speakers calling on the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills to […]
[…]of all charges. USI is calling for the immediate return of student Ibrahim Halawa back home to Ireland. The union also states never again should a student live this nightmare. USI Deputy President Síona Cahill said, “Students across Ireland have been behind the campaign to release Ibrahim Halawa alongside his sisters Somaia, Fatima and Omaima. We celebrated his birthday, we cried out every time his trial was delayed, but today we celebrate his freedom after a hard fought campaign driven by students and his family. “Although our Government took steps to release Ibrahim, the fact that this has taken over […]
[…]least preferred option Students without accommodation 38 students stated they have no accommodation They sleep in friends’ couches/floors and cars In two cases students stated they sleep on the streets 429 out of 7,000 homeless on the night Census 2016 was taken were students. Lease/license agreements and RTB 70% students in PBSA have a signed lease agreement 9 in 10 respondents have signed an agreement in digs-style accommodation Less than half of those who stay in privately rented accommodation, have signed a written contract 26% of students don’t know if their property has been registered with RTB (in privately rented […]
[…]of conscience, imprisoned solely for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression and assembly.”, Mr Kerrigan said. “Although in recent months our Government took increasing steps to release Ibrahim, actions must be put in place so another student isn’t trapped in another country, starving with their mental health suffering for 4 years. Today’s decision is a farce, and this show cannot continue.” Ibrahim Halawa is from Firhouse in Dublin. He was arrested in Cairo during a mass demonstration against the military ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood government in August 2013. He was 17-years-old at the time. His trial with […]
[…]Research shows that depression affects LGBT people at higher rates than the heterosexual population, and it is hoped that this initiative could help improve wellbeing too. All profits from the sale of the gloves will go to two charities. 50% of the profit will go to Aware NI and the other 50% will go to the Rainbow Project. Ruairí Mooney, who helped create the Share the gLove initiative and is a student who plays Gaelic football for Eoghan Rua, Coleraine said: “This initiative will help everyone to feel accepted and welcome into the GAA community. The Share the gLove campaign […]
[…]least preferred option Students without accommodation 38 students stated they have no accommodation They sleep in friends’ couches/floors and cars In two cases students stated they sleep on the streets 429 out of 7,000 homeless on the night Census 2016 was taken were students. Lease/license agreements and RTB 70% students in PBSA have a signed lease agreement 9 in 10 respondents have signed an agreement in digs-style accommodation Less than half of those who stay in privately rented accommodation, have signed a written contract 26% of students don’t know if their property has been registered with RTB (in privately rented […]
[…]from the 26th of July 2017. If you’re a Students’ Union who wants to submit to the newsletter please get your content in by 5pm every Thursday to news@usi.ie. Sign up to the newsletter below! Subscribe to our mailing list and get news on campaigns, events and what your national union is doing for you: Enter your email address and hit […]
[…]offers late in August before applying to SUSI. They should put down their first choice of course on their SUSI application forms and we will confirm their course details once results and course offers are made, through our link with the CAO. Importantly, students should make sure that they have ticked the SUSI option on their CAO forms to allow us to confirm this information. We have already awarded almost 10,500 such students, which is great news. I would encourage students who are thinking of applying for a student grant to visit our website www.susi.ie where they can review information about the […]
[…]from Government instead called that no decision be made until the Joint Committee on Education and Skills had published their recommendations. Speaking after the vote, USI President Michael Kerrigan commented, “Not all of our Senators were brave enough to make the ambitious decision and reject an income contingent loan scheme, despite the obvious and unfair burden placed on students and their families. The message is loud and clear to future students: take your €20,000 debt, your degree, and get out”. Mr Kerrigan went on to say, “Senators across parties declared publicly funded higher education as something we should […]
[…]these measures don’t go far enough. With the maintenance grant ranging from €30 per month on the lowest to €120 on highest non-adjacent grant, this is not sustainable for a student living under 45km from their desired college. With the DIT campus survey outlining that a monthly expenditure excluding fees for a student living away from home is €889, the adjacent grant doesn’t even support students living outside the 45km distance – as the highest possible grant being the special rate at €591.5 per month there has been an increase in the average rent nationwide of 13.4% in the year […]
[…]who are in further education as a hardship fund Responsibility: Department of Education and […]
[…]the financial burden on families until the deliberation of the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills has concluded. The Student Contribution Charge jumped from €1500 to €2000 in Budget 2011 and continued to increase in increments of €250 until it reached €3000 in 2015. A decrease in fee level would come at a relatively small cost to the state and alleviate pressure on the payment of fees that have doubled over a period of six years. The Student Contribution Charge is abnormally high by European standards, and second only to the United Kingdom within in the EU. Public benefits include […]
[…]the project, USI President Annie Hoey said, “USI is proud to be partnering with the HSE, NOSP, and the Minister for Mental Health and Older People in this new exciting venture. Annually USI has run a major national third level mental health campaign, “Chats for Change” and we are excited to see the campaign develop further, while also gathering research on what students need and want from mental health services. We’re keen to discover what is the main contributing factor to one’s mental health and how the student movement can tackle those needs to best support young people and students […]
[…]students from outside the EU as a cash crop. We deplore that we’ve come to this situation, and so whilst we despair at the content, we welcome the candour of Professor Deeks’ statement, who has finally said out loud what we’ve warned for years. We’ve been clear that underinvestment would lead to a reduction in places available to students from inside the EU, including Ireland, EU students are shifted to make more room for the more lucrative students from overseas. Colleges are more than ever in the business of filling classrooms, and the rules allow non-EU students to be shaken […]
[…]to USI: USI is the national representative body for 354,000 students in third-level education on the Island of Ireland. We are a membership organisation – our members are our affiliated Students’ Unions around Ireland, North and South. USI is a democratic organisation. The supreme authority of the Union is the Congress, which is representative of each affiliated students’ union, apportioned according to the size of the student body in each union. Each union also sends one voting member to the National Council – the executive body of the organisation. We work across Ireland to represent the views and needs of […]
[…]and engaging. We used TweetStorms during the heavy media campaign to bring the conversations on the housing crisis from traditional media onto Facebook, Twitter and Instagram”. USI Vice President for Campaigns, Daniel Waugh said, “On Twitter, the campaign reached 294,790 people and made an overall impression of 1,357,345 with an average Engagement Rate of 1.8%. On Facebook, we reached 464,000 people and made an impression of 1,087,345. We also received €49,000 funding for a new staff member as a result of our digital campaigning. We got a total of 298 media mentions and overall readership of 26m. The power of […]
[…]NUS-USI’s ‘Big Gay Wedding’ outside Stormont in Belfast on Monday 22nd of May, on the 2nd Anniversary of the passing of the Marriage Equality Referendum in the Republic of Ireland. USI has issued guidance for students anxious to have a trouble-free departure from their current accommodation – and joined forces with Property Button to help prepare students make their next move hassle free. Read more here. USI announced the launch of a of a major European energy efficiency and energy saving programme for students in Ireland, supported by the European Union. The “Students Achieving Valuable Energy Savings 2” (SAVES2) programme […]
[…]shaken”. USI is the national representative body for the 354,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland. See RTÉ Investigates here: http://www.rte.ie/player/ie/show/rte-investigates-30003696/10730932/ Image […]
[…]Roles are: Public Relations Executive Student Switch Off Dormitory Co-ordinator Please click on the role you’re interested in to find out […]
[…]of each competition will be an energy dashboard that updates students in near-real time on the performance and position of their dormitory in the competition – providing feedback and encouraging further action” USI is the national representative body for the 354,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland. USI are a membership organisation – our members are our affiliated Students’ Unions around Ireland, North and South. USI will be recruiting a full-time dormitory coordinator to run the campaign for 42 months. You can apply for the job […]
[…]you are travelling this summer download the TravelWise app, which has up to date travel information and consular advice for over 200 countries. The President and the VP Campaigns presented to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation on the Banded Hours Bill, and the impact “If and When” contracts have on students. See statement here. On Tuesday, the VP Welfare met with the HSE and presented the evaluation report of the #SHAG17 campaign held in February. The evaluation is a process in a long-term partnership with the HSE in promoting sexual health at third-level […]
[…]See the full statement here. The USI President attended the Citizens’ Assembly meeting on the 23rd of April and spoke at the Repeal the 8th press briefing afterwards declaring students’ firm commitment to the issue. See the full statement here. The Vice President for Campaigns spoke at the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) press briefing on the new report showing 78% of student nurses would consider emigrating for better pay and conditions abroad. See the full statement here: The Vice President for Academic Affairs attended the board meeting of the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching & Learning in […]
Third level students across Ireland are encouraged to participate in the world’s first LGBTI+ Youth Strategy being conducted by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs under the direction of Minister Katherine Zappone and chaired independently by journalist Una Mullally. The Union of Students in Ireland along with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA), National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) and BelongTo, are promoting the event to young people between 15-24 to get involved and ensure they are part of shaping the LGBTI+ Youth Strategy for Ireland. To participate online via spunout.ie, just click here: https://tinyurl.com/IrishLGBTIStrategy To participate […]
[…]the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now online. Click here for more information and to enter. The awards take place on April 20th in Dublin Castle. USI attended the NUS-USI Conference with the NUS President and discussed key issues for students in Northern Ireland. Policy and Campaigns: The USI President, along with the USI Vice President for BMW Region and the President of AIT Students’ Union, presented to the Oireachtas on April 5th on the future of higher education funding emphasising the need for a publicly funded system. Tommy Broughan TD facilitated the briefing and made a strong statement calling […]
[…]students at third level. The SUSI grant system opened for applications for 2017/18 academic year on the 3rd of April. Speaking at the THEA launch on Monday, USI President Annie Hoey said “USI has campaigned consistently for the re-introduction of postgraduate supports and we are glad that the Government has listened to us and brought back supports for those in postgraduate education. We have campaigned solidly on this issue since the grant was abolished in 2012 and have lobbied TDs across all parties for this to be a key priority for the programme for Government agreed during the formation of […]
[…]have been designed supported by a social media campaign to give harm reduction advice and information on accessing support. This phase of the campaign focuses on synthetic cannabinoids 1 and mephedrone 2 . Synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals that mimic the effects of cannabis – but they can be up to 100 times stronger. Mephedrone is one of a range of cathinone drugs and previously these were sold as ‘bath salts’ during the headshop era in Ireland. They are deemed to have similar physical effects to other stimulant drugs, in particular, ecstasy and cocaine. The use of psychoactive drugs in Ireland […]
[…]have begun with local Students’ Unions hustings happening all over Ireland. For information on the final list of candidates, click here. Nominations for the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now open. Click here for more information and to enter. USI held a Student Summit pitch competition with Bank of Ireland in Galway with student start-up Make A Mark going to the final round to win €3,000 on March 21st. Policy and Campaigns: USI supported the new HSE backed campaign around alcohol harm reduction which will be launched next week. Find out more information on www.askaboutalcohol.ie. The Vice President for Equality & […]
[…]welcomes the ethnic minority recognition, finally, of the Irish Travelling community in the Dáil on the night of Wednesday 1st of March. USI will continue to work with Pavee Point on lobbying efforts to secure more investment for education for the community in Ireland. General: USI Officer Board elections have begun with local Students’ Unions hustings happening all over Ireland. For information on the final list of candidates, click here. Nominations for the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now open. Click here for more information and to enter. USI Vice President for Campaigns presented the award for Best Interpretation at […]
General: Nominations for the USI officer board elections are closed. For information on candidates, click here. Nominations for the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now open. Click here for more information and to enter. USI held a Student Summit pitch competition in Belfast with student start-up Bellamoon going to the final round to win €3,000. Policy and Campaigns: The USI are the only group representing students and young people to have been asked to present to the Citizens’ Assembly on March 5th. This week, our VP Equality & the USI President presented the assembly with a paper, and are preparing further material for the […]
[…]concerning higher education are increasingly taken at the European level, ESU’s role as the only European-wide student platform is similarly growing: Bringing together, training and informing national student representatives on policy developments in higher education at the European level; Organising seminars, training, campaigns and conferences relevant to students; Conducting European-wide research, partnership projects and campaigns; Producing a variety of publications for students, policy-makers and higher education professionals. See also ESU’s statutes and standing orders (as adopted at the Board Meeting in Bucharest, Romania, April 2012), ESU’s activity reports and ESU’s Plans of Work. ESU’s mission as adopted at […]
[…]the student movements of Ireland and Britain united in Northern Ireland to provide representation and responsible leadership for students irrespective of their religion, politics or allegiance. Our vision of diverse people, united for their common good is as strong and bright today as it was then. Our unique bond across borders and spanning the Irish Sea is proof that differences and unity of purpose can co-exist – and so we have hope for a better future.” “Students in Northern Ireland and across these islands are united in their call to make the Assembly election about the future. Parties must […]
[…]for the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now open. Click here for more information and to enter. President of NUS-USI Fergal McFerran, President of NUS Malia Bouattia and President of USI Annie Hoey met in Dublin and issued a joint statement calling for candidates in the Northern Ireland Assembly election to focus on building a stable future which delivers hope and opportunity for students and young people. Policy and Campaigns: Assisted National Forum in reviewing funded projects aimed at enhancing teaching & learning in higher education. Met with the Irish Survey of Student Engagement (ISSE) to evaluate progress of survey […]
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[…]for the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now open. Click here for more information and to enter. USI attended WIT Students’ Union class representative council and a Repeal the 8th debate hosted by WIT FLAC society. USI hosted a meeting in IT Blanchardstown for Students’Union Officers to discuss policies and motions for USI Congress 2017. USI held a National Council meeting in IT Blanchardstown where Students’Union Officers discussed campaigns, academic affairs, welfare, equality and national issues. Policy and Campaigns: The Vice President for Welfare attended the Students Sport Ireland Board meeting. USI pledged support to students in Northern Ireland ahead of the […]
USI Officers and local SU teams have gone on the offensive against sexually transmitted infections this week, with the launch of a major revamped SHAG campaign. The campaign, supported by the Health Service Executive, is taking campuses by storm across Ireland after its launch at DCUSU, as 30,000 SHAG packs are distributed to students. If you’re one of the 30,000 USI members getting top-class advice and quality condoms and lube, remember to follow the information and advice on the box! Press Release: SI partners with HSE to say “SHAG off” to STIs 13/02/2017 – 65% of Chlamydia diagnoses […]
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General: USI are featured on the Governance Code website as being ‘On the Journey’. Please see: http://www.governancecode.ie/registry.html. Completed the USI democratic review after public consultations with membership. Completed the USI constitution review after public consultations with membership. Nominations for the USI officer board elections are open. For information as to how to participate, click here. Nominations for the Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2017 are now open. Click here for more information and to enter. Policy and Campaigns: The Vice President for Equality & Citizenship was appointed by the National Youth Council of Ireland to the National Government oversight committee of the LGBT Youth Strategy […]
[…]and on behalf of thousands of women every day, and see the impacts, both immediate and long term, on them as they progress through education and graduate beyond college level. Systems, structures, legislation, as well as societal attitude and expectation heavily impact our female members trajectory, and ability to succeed throughout their lives. USI sees this as a fundamental moment in which the status quo, and the rate of change of mechanisms to advance equality, need to be challenged, improved, and re-energised. As the largest union in the country, USI sees its role as being integral to developing the National […]
[…]consent through national campaigns, policy and lobbying the government for extra support. USI were on the group for creating the Consent Framework which is now being implemented across the country. Want to tackle gender base violence on your campus? Check out the toolkit below: 👉 The IT STOPS NOW toolkit was created by one of our close partners in the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI). The main aim of this toolkit is to tackle gender based violence and to end sexual harassment and violence in third level education. What is Consent? Dating can be amazing when you […]
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Dear Minister McEntee, On the 11th of October 2016, both Mental Health Reform (MHR) and the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) welcomed the Government’s decision to allocate €35M in development funding as a positive step towards implementation of the national mental health policy, A Vision for Change. Disappointingly, less than one week later we learned that under half of this money, €15M, would be released to the HSE to spend in 2017. The allocation of €15m for 2017 will represent only a 1.8% investment in new developments for mental health compared to the 2016 budget. Even including the €9.7M […]
[…]ICTU Youth, ISSU (Irish Second-Level Students Union), the Irish Rugby Union Players Association and Youth Work Ireland are all backing USI’s national demonstration. The demonstration, which is leaving the Garden of Remembrance at 1pm and marching to the Department of the Taoiseach, is supported by organisations comprising of 1,992,760 members, and will call on the Government and the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills to choose the publicly-funded third level education model as outlined in the Cassells report. USI said the income-contingent loan scheme option from the Cassells report is not a viable solution to third level funding as […]
The Union of Students in Ireland is asking students to join them and protest against the imprisonment of Irishman Ibrahim Halawa in front of the Egyptian embassy, 12 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, today, Monday October 3rd, between 5.30pm and 7pm. Ibrahim Halawa’s trial in Egypt has been adjourned for the 15th time, meaning that he has now spent 38 months in jail without a trial. The 20-year-old has been jailed since August 2013 after he was arrested and detained at a protest in Cairo. The demonstration was in support of the Muslim Brotherhood which had been ousted from power […]
[…]which represents 354,000 students across the island of Ireland, has emphasised that early detection and treatment of STIs is absolutely vital to minimise the possibility of any long-term health damage. As part of the SHAG week campaign, USI has also updated the website shag.usi.ie with information on types on contraception, how to use contraception, details on emergency contraception and the importance of safe sex. Click here for the full report – STI notifications from CIDR – 2015 [Powerpoint […]
[…]in Ireland President, said. “All major education unions are backing publicly funded education and vehemently opposing the introduction of a loan scheme. We are the organisations that are on the ground, familiar with the struggles and hurdles within the sector and are collectively urging the government to choose the only long-term sustainable and practical option in the Cassells Report – a publicly funded third level education system.” “The educational contributions made to cultural, social and economic aspects of a country are huge” Mike Jennings, General Secretary of IFUT (the Irish Federation of University Teachers) said. “What we need is decisiveness […]
[…]demonstration, which is expected to draw over 5,000 students from across Ireland, will take place on the 19th October. USI are urging students from across the country to contact their local students’ unions if they want to join the demonstration. At the demonstration, USI will call on the Irish government and the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills to make a historic long-term decision and invest in the publicly-funded third level education model as outlined in the Cassells report. USI said that an income-contingent loan scheme is not a viable solution to third level funding as a burden […]
[…]for BTEA that require urgent action from you in your capacity as Minister for Social Protection. The fundamental purpose of this support is to help people like her access better prospects through third-level education. The current arrangements are clearly antithetical to that important objective. Our colleague from Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union yesterday described the 2015 changes to one-parent family benefits as “thoughtless”. Those measures were thoughtless precisely because they evidently failed to anticipate the situation that they would bring about – one in which a single parent who is raising her child in a hotel could be deemed ineligible […]
[…]of providing dedicated and additional student accommodation to avoid putting additional pressures on the private rental sector, particularly in and around the many universities and third-level institutions in urban areas. USI said the funding for the appointment of a Student Housing Project Manager is a progressive step to address and enhance measures in the student accommodation sector and to assist students in finding appropriate accommodation. “Homes.usi.ie has already proved to be absolutely vital for students across Ireland searching for accommodation.” USI President, Annie Hoey, said. “With the funding from the Department, USI will be able to better support the student […]
[…]made by employers. “Publicly-funded higher education is the only long-term practical solution the Cassells report can suggest.” Hoey said. “Free education is absolutely vital for intellectual progression, personal growth and career development. Information is power, so education is empowerment.” Minister for Education, Richard Bruton spoke about the importance of improving the higher education sector in Ireland – “The higher education sector is at the heart of delivering on massive social and economic challenges, including providing better life opportunities for people from disadvantaged areas, training the skilled workers needed for a growing economy, and delivering major research and innovation projects to […]
[…]of students. 74.3% of students have thought about dropping out because of the cost of education and 75.4% have worked leading up to and/ or during exams. When asked ‘have you missed lectures because of work?’ 63% answered ‘yes’, while 67.3% said their work negatively affected their academic success. 61.6% said they had worked to the point of burnout to pay for college. USI said the registration fee of €3,000, which is already the second highest in Europe, should be reduced to make college affordable for every young person who wants to progress to third level education, and to […]
[…]in Ireland) have joined forces to back the #Bremain campaign, as the Brexit referendum approaches on the 23rd June, emphasising that a vote to leave Europe will have a negative effect on students, new graduates and young people. NUS-USI and USI said if Britain votes to leave the EU, it could take years to broker new trade agreements between the UK and the EU, and will cause years of uncertainty for British and Irish trade, which will have a knock-on effect for employment and enterprise prospects for young people. NUS-USI and USI said that new border controls between the Republic […]
[…]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, USI President, said. “It’s no surprise that the paper given to the minister suggests that the increase isn’t a solution to the funding crisis. Our […]
The Union of Students in Ireland is calling on the government to launch nationwide 24/7 community-based crisis intervention services to reduce hospital readmission rates for mental health difficulties. Two thirds of people presenting for hospital treatment for serious mental health difficulties in 2015 were readmitted within the year according to data released by the HSE. There were almost 13,100 admissions in 2015 and the readmission rate within 12 months was 66 per cent. USI praised Minister Simon Harris for reversing the €12million diversion from mental health services in Ireland. USI President Kevin Donoghue said putting the €12million back where it […]
[…]celebrated the first anniversary of marriage equality outside the Department of An Taoiseach on the 23rd May with an #iPropose themed campaign. At the #iPropose campaign, USI illustrated the issues that are still blocking LGBT equality with props of engagement rings and messages, directed to An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, such as “#iPropose an end to the blood ban”; “#iPropose an extension of Gender recognition to those under 18”; and #iPropose hate crime legislation be introduced.” The Union of Students in Ireland said the first year anniversary should be celebrated as a moment of true equality and progression in Irish society, […]
[…]at its lowest level in over 5 years. Student housing (lack of purpose built on-campus accommodation and private sector rent price increase and lack of rental properties) continues to fuel a dropout culture in third level education yet education is widely recognised as a key factor in social and economic wellbeing in Ireland. The Higher Education Authority (HEA) predicts that there will be an increase from 167,991 students in Full Time Education (FTEs) in 2014 to 192, 886 FTEs in 2024 indicating the strong demand for accommodation will be increasing within a decade. Students are sophisticated partners in higher education […]
[…]Donoghue said. “It enables quality assurance, better retention rates, educational satisfaction and means needs of the students are represented to the government. When students are seen as partners, not consumers, it improves the staff/student relationships and progression in high level education.” The report of the Working Group recommended that all higher education institutions complete a co-led (staff and student) evaluation of formal and informal student engagement practices and opportunities at every level. Once the self-evaluations are complete, institutions and students should co-author a student engagement policy that places the principles included in the Working Group’s report at the heart […]
[…]and the Association of Higher Education Careers Services (AHECS) respond to concerns from students on their employability prospects. Latest gradireland research (conducted by international research company trendence) reveals that over 62% of Ireland’s students are “worried about their future career” and only 61% believe that their course provides them “with the right skills for the labour market”. On 12 April at the RDS, gradireland #FYI will actively seek to address the key area of ‘employability skills’ at a unique, experiential Careers Showcase. Register on Eventbrite now:http://www.eventbrite.ie/e/gradireland-fyi-careers-showcase-tickets-20753314723?ref=ebtnebregn “USI is delighted to be on board with the #FYI event,” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, […]
[…]across Europe were killed, and with victims of the terror attacks in Brussels last night. Speaking on the first day of debate at USI Congress in Ennis, Co. Clare, Mr Donoghue said: I want to take a moment to recognise two horrific events in the past few days; the bus crash in Spain which injured two students from Ireland and resulted in the deaths of students from our fraternal partners in Europe is heartbreaking; they were expanding their horizons and striking out in other countries to learn more about their chosen subject and the world around them; we are deeply […]
Young people are at the forefront of change and progression in every society. On the 23rd May 2015 Ireland had affirmed to the world what it means to be a modern republic. Since the marriage referendum in Ireland, students have become aware that they can change the world through politics by becoming actively, meaningfully and substantially involved throughout political parties and beyond. Today’s youth engagement is not indifferent to politics – it is simply different to previous generations. Today’s students don’t absorb the propaganda-influenced media. They see through the heavily-edited, scripted politicians. They reject injustice and inequality. A century […]
[…]– Candidate for USI President Michael Kerrigan – Candidate for USI VP Border, Midlands and Western Region Síona Cahill – Candidate for USI VP Equality and Citizenship Niamh Murtagh – Candidate for USI VP Southern Region Aoife Ní Shúilleabháin – Candidate for VP Welfare https://youtu.be/fc1d6FeydTQ Dan Waugh – Candidate for VP […]
[…]reasonable for political parties to pretend free third level education is not viable. It comes on the wake of reports that the Cassells report on Higher Education Funding will include free education as one of three options to be considered by the next government. Kevin Donoghue, USI President “Political parties struggled to show real leadership on the issue of higher education funding prior to the election,” said Kevin Donoghue, USI President. “Most of them were concerned about the implications of talking about increased fees or loans before a public vote.” USI has maintained that Higher Education should be free and […]
[…]two students in Heuston station Iarnród Éireann is partnering with the Union of Students in Ireland and encouraging students across the country to go home to vote in the General Election. At all times Iarnród Éireann offers student discounts on all routes of up to 54%. Taking the train home to vote in their local constituency is the fastest, most relaxing and most environmentally friendly way to travel. Iarnród Éireann and USI are urging students to #VoterMotor and have their voices, and their votes, heard in the general election. Iarnród Éireann offers huge discounts to students at all times with […]
[…]to be under the influence of alcohol. “We hope that these statistics will shed new light on the area of violence, including physical and sexual harassment.” Kevin Donoghue, President of the Union of Students in Ireland, said “We hope this card will be an aid to students who find themselves in the position where they’re victims of violence and don’t know what to do next. We want to reverse the culture of victim blaming in Ireland and instead of blaming the victim, we want to help, support and empower them.” There were a large proportion of victims who did not […]
The Irish Student Summit 2016 will take place on the 4th February in Dublin Castle. The event will have over 600 students, 40+ start ups, 22 workshops and powerhouse business speakers from Silicon Valley and Ireland, with speakers from Paddy Power, Silicon Republic, Ireland AM, Mór Gin, Cool Beans and Humans of Dublin. One Student Start-up will walk away with a €1,500 investment in their business idea. Enterprise Ireland is sponsoring a €1,500 prize for the winner of the Student Start-Up Pitch. A panel of judges will narrow down applications to the ten best from the online submissions and […]
[…]Value Higher Education’ campaign invites students, their families and teachers to sign the petition on http://chn.ge/1R6NBXz “USI is proud to join with TUI on the ‘I Value Higher Education’ campaign which seeks to promote the value of higher education in Irish society.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “The campaign acknowledges higher education as a central function within the social, cultural and economic fabrics of Irish society. It recognises the contribution already made to the Irish economic growth and social development through the provision of publicly-funded higher education; promotes free higher education as a public good; calls for equality of access […]
[…]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 away and outlined that other countries in Europe offer better pay and lower registration fees, making the cost of education cheaper abroad. The federal 3rd level loan system did not work in Australia, the UK or the […]
[…]ramp up food production are realised. The EU requires a 20pc cut by 2020 over 2005 levels – on the current pathway, Ireland will have reduced by just 5pc by 2020, well below the target. Students across the country are objecting to the climate change. TCDFossilFree has started a petition to call on Trinity, the Univeristy of Dublin and its subsidiaries to immediately freeze any new investment in fossil-fuel companies, and to divest within five years from direct ownership and from any commingled funds that include fossil-fuel public equities and corporate bonds. Trinity also attended the climate change march in […]
[…]UK) will undoubtedly have dire long-term consequences. Selling into privatisation is an assault on the education system, and in turn, students. This system did not work in the UK. It would desecrate Ireland, tearing it apart and converting it from the Land of Saints and Scholars into the Land of Corporate Greed and Economically […]
[…]Guiney The Student summit launch party kicked off in the Bank of Ireland innovation centre on the 22nd October at 6pm to launch over 40 start up jobs for students, over 20 development workshops for young entrepreneurs, and the student summit start up pitch which is putting the finest student start ups head-to-head for a cash prize, working office space and mentoring with Enterprise Ireland. The Student Summit 2016 will include key speakers such as Feilim Mac An Iomaire, the PR and Media Relations Manager at Paddy Power; Humans of Dublin, who will be doing a workshop […]
[…]Intellectual Property (who legalise the patent and trade mark of the business), Grant Thornton and Intel. To enter the Student Entrepreneur Awards, a video pitch should be send by the 17th March 2016, through studententrepreneurawards.com. This will be narrowed down to 50 applicants and the top ten will be invited to the awards where they will be offered mentoring from the sponsors and be in with a chance of winning a cash prize. The awards will be held in LIT in June 2016. Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur is run by the local enterprise office and can be entered by anyone […]
Before World Mental Health Day on the 10th October, the Union of Students in Ireland have released new survey results which show that 73.1% of students said the high cost of college causes them anxiety or stress. 95.3% of students think the cost of college is too high at €11,000 per year, and 72% of students are struggling financially to stay in college. “73% is an alarming percentage of students who are experiencing depression and anxiety because of the high cost of college.” USI president, Kevin Donoghue, said, “€ 11,000 a year for a college course or €33,000 – €77,000 […]
[…]Employment Scheme for Students (BESS) on campus at Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT), on Monday 21 September, 2015. The BESS initiative, a brain child of the Student Union President, Dylan McGowan, has been developed to enable students and businesses engage with each other, for the purpose of providing part-time or temporary jobs for students. This pilot programme hopes to assist local businesses, by providing the local business network with access to LYIT students, who may be seeking part-time or temporary work. Dylan McGowan, Student Union President, added “I know what it’s like to be a struggling student; this initiative aims […]
[…]with a special responsibility for communication to elected representatives, political parties and their staffs. The successful candidate will have experience in communicating to a wide range of publics on social and political issues, with a proven record in writing for printed and online publications, press relations and monitoring of outcomes from communications. The successful candidate will have an excellent standard of written and spoken English. The candidate will report to the General Manager The successful candidate will assist the President with the communications needs of the organisation, including: Research and Develop Social Media Strategy Design Promotional Material including […]
[…]in some countries, and believes that a similar set-up could be put in place for being registered on the Register of Electors. Congress therefore mandates The VP Equality and Citizenship to explore the possibility for the introduction of automatic voter registration for all elections and referenda, with the inclusion of an “opt-out” scheme, and to make proposals backing such to the appropriate Government department. 15 CZN 6 Election Information Congress notes that as we head into the next academic year we are facing into a general election Congress is concerned at the low level of political engagement among […]
[…]Believes: Training is key to the standard of work done by the Part Time Officers. Both the Union and campaigns run by USI and individual SU’s are strongest with unity and training. USI Congress therefore Deletes the Motions: 14 /Uo 14, 13/ Uo 13, 09/Uo 11 USI Congress Mandates: All members of the USI Officer Board to provide appropriate training relevant to their area for all Part Time Officers throughout the country. To create unity, the Officer Board shall also create an online network for Part Time Officers throughout the country. Both mandates are to be completed by the end […]
[…] Only 3% of the Irish population give blood, providing blood for a population of over 4 million Only 5% of the Irish population eligible to give blood do so USI Congress further Notes: That many other countries and states, such as recently the United States of America, have changed their policy regarding the donation of blood by MSM donors. Sexual orientation screening negates the possibility of many potential blood donors based on outdated evidence and research. USI Congress Affirms: Where possible it is best to use existing evidence and research to inform decisions and stances upon issues. 15 NA […]
[…]‘Role Models’. Congress declares: That Congress has no confidence in public bodies advocating on the issue of alcohol misuse and abuse which are funded by the drinks industry. Congress calls: On all public health and education bodies who sit on this board to resign from this board and to no longer support this model. Congress mandates the USI President: To campaign against this body ‘Role Models’ and the continuation of such bodies based on this model. 15 WE1 Accommodation crisis USI Congress Notes: The difficulty in recent years students face in obtaining accommodation. USI Congress further Notes: […]
[…]students have not been sufficiently engaged with in relation to the proposed incorporation and there is a need for absolute clarity of the implications of the incorporation for students. Congress therefore mandates: The USI President to engage with the HEA and the Minister of Education and Skills to voice concerns regarding the incorporation from the perspective of students and to report back to the next National Council. 15 AAQA 1 Academic Teaching Staff Annual Leave and the Examination and Examination Appeals Process. Congress recognises That the current academic teaching staff annual leave agreement has significant repercussions for the […]
[…]we await further information from the authorities. Every year thousands of students travel the world to broaden their horizons and learn from other peoples. We urge students overseas to take care today wherever they are, and to the time to phone home and check in.” Consular Advice Telephone (Department of Foreign Affairs) +353 1 418 […]
[…]to USI President Laura Harmon. “Students can be rightly proud of the tremendous contribution they have made to the success of this historic marriage equality referendum campaign.” Ms Harmon said the passing of the referendum shows just how far public opinion has come in Ireland. It is not only a historic occasion but a sign to ourselves and to the rest of the world of a new Ireland – one of inclusivity, equality and generosity of spirit.” Ms Harmon said that the late surge in voter registrations with nearly 28,000 new voters signed up through the USI initiative, and with […]
Help us set a new World Record – show the world how big our heart is! The Union of Students in Ireland will hold a world record attempt on 25 April at Smithfield Square, Dublin 7.* Online event registration for Big Love – USI marriage equality World Record Attempt powered by Eventbrite The event will consist of an attempt to form a large number of people into the shape of a heart. There is no current record for this feat, though similar records have been attempted and set. We want hundreds in our heart – and we’re looking for a […]
STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR STUDENT OCCUPANTS OF THE LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) wishes to extend solidarity to the students who have been occupying the Van Anstey Suite of the London School of Economics. A list of their demands includes the abolition of tuition fees, an end to the use of zero-hours contracts in the college and a severing of ties with organisations who are involved in military occupations. More broadly, the occupation represents a rejection of the current role of higher education in serving the interests of a few rather than the whole of society and is the latest […]
[…]Release Union of Students in Ireland to hold seminar on publicly funded higher education The Union of Students in Ireland will host a breakfast seminar on publicly funded higher education at the Department of Education and Skills on Thursday 12th March. The seminar, which will begin at 9.00am, will hear from students, second level students, researchers into economic and social policy and an international expert on higher education funding. Speaking in advance of the event, USI President Laura Harmon said: “The USI has a long standing policy advocating for public investment in higher education. Education is a public good and […]
[…]and the same dreams of getting married (be it a white wedding or whatever they want) to the person they love. The personal is often linked to the political. And personal stories and conversations will be a huge part of what wins this referendum. It won’t be won online. Dinner table chats with family; lunch time chats with colleagues; after class chats; taxi chats – whether you’re gay or straight we all have a role to play and a story to tell. Young people and students have an enormous role to play in this referendum and they also recognise that […]
Holocaust Memorial Day takes place worldwide on the Sunday closest to 27th January every year. The day itself serves as a much needed highlighter of all forms of intolerance. Within the struggle of the oppressed people living under Nazi rule, there is a story for student circles worth reflection upon. Students’ unions have long espoused a view that we are not merely self-serving entities. Aside from trying to create education system we need, we also try to act as a social conscience, shaping the society that we believe in. In the summer of 1942, Nazi rule was engrained into practically […]
[…]to civil marriage in Ireland is one of the most important civil rights issues of our generation and that students have a valuable role to play in making this a reality. At the official launch of Students for Marriage Equality, plans for the coming months on how to win the referendum will be outlined, along with hearing first-hand accounts of why marriage equality is important to individual students. USI President, Laura Harmon, said: “Students have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make Ireland more equal in the upcoming referendum on marriage equality. It is clear that students want to live in a more inclusive and egalitarian society. Access to marriage […]
[…]to student life of mature students, who bring a wealth of life experience and knowledge to bear on their studies and enhance the diversity of the studying experience. Perhaps the only valuable thing about this video is how true to life it is in its portrayal of exclusion where it occurs – and the reason the video falls flat is because viewers of the video know that the attitudes portrayed in it cause hurt and distress to the excluded. USI believes in freedom of speech – and chooses to exercise that right in the service of valuing all our members, […]
[…]ones today and in the days to come, the supporting and caring role of the whole student community, and the services of the Students’ Unions and colleges will come into their own and prove invaluable. There isn’t a worse way to start the new year in college – but in times of such sorrow, the support of the college community is acutely needed by the people affected. Ar dheis Dé go raibh […]
[…]and may never be known. However, what is known is that both of these women requested an abortion and were denied one. Cases like all the ones mentioned above will continue to happen. Thousands of women will continue to travel abroad to access abortion services. Women will continue to find themselves in incredibly difficult circumstances where they have few people to turn to for support. The pro and anti-choice sides will continue to use individual stories and cases as pawns in getting their own agenda across. The lack of legal clarity and the question of ethics will continue to […]
[…]of marriage equality. To hold this referendum any later than May 1st would be an act of folly on the part of the Government – none of us want to be watching the votes coming in wishing that more people could have voted yes and by holding it at an opportune time for students, USI will deliver on our promise of a higher percentile turn-out from that demographic. This has been the largest voter registration drive USI has completed in recent years and the first step in our voter registration campaign. We had set an ambitious target to exceed 10,000 […]
[…]in the organisation. The new features of the site are: USI Events A proper Events Notification and booking system. If USI is hosting an event, its details and the opportunity to book will be available on the site. Blogs for Officers Student officers lead USI – now they can communicate their thoughts, their take on events and share news about their work with members. Blogs for Committees and Administration This allows the committees of USI to communicate directly with members when it’s necessary. Forum The only closed section of the site, this section allows members of National Council (the […]
[…]to many issues inside and outside their remits. The USI Blog section allows officers to explore the stories and processes behind the news stories and to explain how they do their job. Note: sometimes, the blog section may deviate from the mainstream of policies for the organisation – as a result, this section is not to be taken as a canonical interpretation of the whole raft of USI’s policies. [loop category=guestblog module=b […]
The Union of Students in Ireland has responded to the provisions of Budget 2015 in a report issued on the USI website with the following statement: USI Budget 2015 Response Document USI welcomes the decision not to cut or otherwise amend the student maintenance grant, which is relied upon by thousands of students who would otherwise be unable to afford third level. In addition, the decision to frontload grant repayments to four payments in the first semester, five payments in the second semester, will help students handle the increased start-up costs of study. The decision to return the €25m withheld from colleges […]
[…]jointly hosted by the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education and the Union of Students of Ireland. Pictured prior to the event were Dr. Terry Maguire Director of the Forum for Teaching and Learning, Prof Mary McAleese, Patron of the National Forum, Minister for Education & Skills Ms Jan OÕSullivan TD, USI President Laura Harmon and Prof Sarah Moore, Chair of the National Forum . Photo Chris Bellew / Fennell […]
[…]earlier this week highlighted high levels of drop-outs, particularly from students reliant on the student grant. Rental availability is known to be a key factor in […]
[…]of the third level student grant is contributing to an increase in drop-out from college and abandonment of qualifications. Laura Harmon, USI President, welcoming the publication of the report, said that the troubling findings are consistent with the arguments of the student movement over many years: “The point of the grant is to provide support to those students who most need it – who don’t have the financial means to put them through a course of education. We’ve said for several years that the falling value of the grant puts more and more pressure on students to make ends meet. […]
[…]Ireland Travel Bureau) created a social revolution which broadened the horizons of the Irish nation and ignited the J1 Visa phenomenon in Ireland and beyond. Gordon is perhaps best remembered as a true gentleman of Irish business – respected for his business manner as much as his business success. That’s saying quite a lot – USIT at one point had turnover over €600m per annum and employed 1,500 people in 200 locations around the world. As the co-founder of Magill magazine and chairman for many years of the (now sadly defunct) Sunday Tribune, he contributed enormously to the political and […]
[…]must recognise the need to engage with young people where they are looking for information and support that is outside of the school/college setting. According to the My World Survey, 77% of young people surveyed reported they would be likely to use the internet as a source of help. In addition to this the young people were asked about ways that help them cope when things are tough. The most frequently reported ways of coping were friends, talking, music, family and exercise. We must use this when engaging with young people. We must commend the work being done by various […]
The USI website will be down for upgrades three times in June. Outage 1: 04/06/2014: 1200 IST until 1730 IST Outage 2: 12/06/2014: 1200 IST until 1730 IST Outage 3: 20/06/2014 1200 IST until 24 /06/2014 1730 […]
[…]floating voters will support candidates committed to addressing the core issues impacting on the lives of young people today. We are encouraging young people to use their vote next Friday to ensure politicians hear their voice,” said James Doorley, NYCI Deputy Director. Need for candidates to engage with young voters “We also call on candidates to communicate with young voters and outline what they plan to do to address the concerns and needs of young people. The 2011 general election saw a 12% increase in voter turnout for young people on the previous general election. With large numbers of young […]
[…]registered to vote in the upcoming local, European and by-elections. With the deadline for inclusion on the supplementary register of electors just 5 days away (May 6th), it is essential that young people move to ensure they are eligible to cast a ballot on May 23rd. Large numbers of young people across the country are registered and using their vote (The 2011 general election saw an increase of 12% in voter turnout for young people on the previous general election – CSO, Quarterly Household Survey), but approximately 50,000 young people turn 18 every year in Ireland and they need to […]
[…]to identify and activate their most influential customers to spark peer-to-peer conversation and drive word-of-mouth (WOM) marketing. Brands can avail of their own custom branded social rewards app or integrate Popdeem into existing apps using the Popdeem Mobile SDK. In 2013, Popdeem launched their own local rewards app with 15 local businesses in Dublin. The company was founded by Richard Whelan (CEO) and Gavin Hayes (COO) and is backed by leading Irish investors including Telefonica and Enterprise Ireland. Richard is a UCD Commerce graduate (2011). He was recently featured in the Irish Independent’s “Top 30 Under 30” entrepreneurs. During his time […]
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[…]the highest number of applications per capita received to date by any of the 12 academies around the world.Pic:Maxwells-no […]
[…]Denise McCarthy USI Deputy President and USI VP for Welfare, Kevin Donoghue USI VP for BMW Region and Stephen Fleming, a student from St Patrick’s College, Maynooth Students’ Union. The results for the rest of the USI Officer Board 2014/15 positions are as follows; · Leas Uachtarán Gaeilge/USI VP for Irish Language Feidhlim Seoighe · USI VP BMW (Border, Midlands and Western Region) Conor Stitt · USI VP Southern Region Martin Lynch · USI VP Equality and Citizenship Annie Hoey · USI VP Campaigns Glenn Fitzpatrick · USI VP for Welfare Greg O’ Donoghue. · Nominations will re-open for USI […]
[…]one of the most genuine and honest people to have been involved in USI for many years. His dedication and commitment to the student cause both on a national level and working on behalf of the students in LIT was unparalleled. He is a true inspiration to all of us in the student movement. This is obviously an extremely difficult time for those of us who knew Steven, and the many students who assisted in his role in LIT Students’ Union. For anyone who requires support or just someone to talk to, we here at USI are of course available […]
[…]in April, to signify that student entrepreneurs will be ‘invading’ Dublin Castle on April 8th. On the evening of April 8th, student entrepreneurs and Ireland’s finest start-ups and innovative business entrepreneurs will converge on the Print Works Conference Centre, Dublin Castle for the USI Student Summit 2014. At the USI Student Summit 2014 there will be: 600+ students 30+ Start-ups exhibiting Key speakers Workshops Pitch Pit Demonstrations Central to the USI Student Summit 2014 theme is to create a sense of community among young student entrepreneurs in Ireland, where they can come and learn about how to start their trade, […]
[…]and talking about them. At Durex, we are committed to raising awareness of sexual health education and the importance of safer sex, which is why we are delighted to support the USI with such an important campaign.” Organisations supporting the campaign: Durex MSD Think Contraception IFPA (Irish family planning association) Dublin Aids Alliance Crisis Pregnancy Programmes Aids West Rape Crisis Network – ENDS – For more information contact Grainne O’ Reilly, USI Communications and Research Executive on 0876776636 or […]
[…]to arrest anyone who is shown to be supporting LGBTQ rights during the Winter Olympics. To call on the International Olympics Committee to honour Principle 6: “Any form of discrimination with regard to a country or a person on grounds of race, religion, politics, gender or otherwise is incompatible with belonging to the Olympic Movement,” in relation to Sochi and future Olympic venues. The Irish Government to condemn the treatment of LGBTQ people in Sochi and across Russia. President Putin to lift the 100 year ban on Moscow Pride. Speakers included Vladimir Dotsenko, a Russian national working as a lecturer […]
[…]national internship scheme, JobBridge. The youth committees of the Communications Workers’ Union and Mandate Trade Union along with the Union of Students in Ireland, ScamBridge and the We’re Not Leaving youth group held a joint press conference today (Wednesday, 29th January 2014) at which they called for the scheme to be phased out. CWU Youth Committee Chair, Derek Keenan, said: “ JobBridge is not just an attack on those seeking work but also part of a much broader attempt to reduce the pay and conditions of workers in all sectors of the economy. The scheme has depressed real job creation by allowing employers […]
[…]time. Join ProYouth to self test yourself. The website has articles and a blog with information and inspiration to cope with issues relating to self-esteem, mental and physical health, body dissatisfaction, and media influences on eating and body issues. There is message boards with a variety of topics relevant to eating and body issues, where students and trained student moderators provide support and a place to express your concerns. The opportunity to book 1 to 1 chats with a health care professional, for more individual support and help to identify ways of getting better. The main objectives of the ProYouth online […]
[…]with engaging stories and conversations in social media. Check out the Merchant Referral Scheme on the website and follow Deal Effect on Twitter and Like it on Facebook to interact, get updates and share content. #GiveBack11 All SU members of Deal Effect are actively encouraged to use all of these opportunities to increase awareness of Deal Effect and thus drive the necessary growth in the subscriber base that is needed to make the venture successful for all. All those who know about Deal Effect are in agreement that it presents a unique and compelling opportunity for charities and the public […]
[…]13 December 2013), will help Irish higher education institutions to enhance the quality of education they provide by asking students in detail about their experiences. This fully national survey is the first system-wide survey of its kind in Europe and will be rolled out by participating institutions in February – March 2014. The Irish Survey of Student Engagement (ISSE) is designed to reach out to students and to hear about their full experience of higher education. Student feedback will provide institutions with valuable information that they can use to identify effective practice and provision and to prompt awareness of, and action […]
[…]I would like to extend my condolences to the Mandela family and the people of South Africa, on the passing of the great Nelson Mandela. We also wish to express our gratitude for the inspirational and immeasurable work Mr. Mandela has done in promoting peace, human rights and social justice. USI has a long history of campaigning with the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement, and engaged heavily with campaigns to release Mr. Mandela from prison during the 1980’s. In the future, as we continue our battle for equity of access to Education and the elimination of racism and social exclusion, I am […]
[…]Independent 25/11/13 Students protest over third-level cutbacks RTE 01/10/13 USI News on […]
Targeted Cuts will be met with Targeted Voting […]
RTE Morning Edition: Emigration in Ireland (Skip to 1:05:30) 25/11/2013 or click here for short clip. Let’s hope the Government remember students when it comes to Budget sums 14/10/13 The Independent USI Launch No Campaign in the Seanad Referendum 11/09/13 Newstalk Students to Resist Cuts to Grants RTE 19/08/13 TV3 Ireland AM: USI President on College […]
[…]was passed without objection at USI National Council, held in the Dublin Institute of Technology on the 9th of November. The decision was not taken lightly, it has been discussed among Students’ Union Officers nation-wide for quite some time. USI will develop a student alcohol awareness campaign independently through working with other bodies that are not funded by a self-regulating drinks industry. USI President Joe O Connor, said: “The ‘Arthurs Day’ festival by Diageo further deepened our concerns regarding the credibility of Drinkaware’s alcohol awareness campaign. Encouraging students to drink responsibly is still an encouragement for students to drink- regardless of […]
[…]health is part of all of our stories and we want to encourage people to start the conversation and take the time to talk to friends, classmates or family about mental health. The theme of ‘More Talk, More Action’ is to talk more and take action for your wellbeing. ‘Chats for Change’ is the perfect way to enjoy a cup of tea while reaching out and talking to someone. We are delighted to partner with mental health organisations that will help spread the message across Ireland and are very grateful for the support of Lyons.” Liz Finlay, Lyons Brand Manager […]
[…]in rates of dropout, which would negate the overall investment made by the state”. A young person on the dole costs twice as much as a student on a maintenance grant. The average grant recipient costs the state €3,276 per year. The average young person (under-25) on an already-reduced dole will receive €7,320 in Social Welfare payments. So every young person who drops out of college and can’t find work costs the state €4,000 a year more than their student grant would. According to research by the ICLU, 84 per cent of families are already struggling to meet the rising […]
[…]part of all of our stories. We all have good days and bad, and its okay not to feel okay. Today, on World Mental Health Day, make the time and space to reach out and speak to friends, classmates and family members and ask how they’re doing. Talking is a sign of strength so if you are feeling low, seek support right away, as there is no need to feel alone. There is always someone there to listen and provide support. ” USI President, Joe O’Connor said: “We would like to remind the Minister that cutbacks in student financial supports […]
[…]Allowance for an unqualified 18-19 year old, at €100 per week. For many, dropping out and going on the dole would be a short-term financial easing, and this is an unacceptable state of affairs which has caused great hardship, angst and strain to the youth of this country. If the devastation caused by last year’s SUSI grants processing debacle achieved one thing, it was to highlight the fundamental importance of the student maintenance grant to students and families up and down the country. Our grants system is deeply flawed, deeply insufficient for the poorest in our society, and in dire […]
[…]Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence). For more information on USI contact USI Communications & Research Executive Grainne O’Reilly on 087-6776636, or […]
[…]to the maintenance grant in the upcoming October Budget 2014. The demonstrations will take place on the same day in three regional locations; Dublin, Cork and Sligo. Thousands of students will join together with one collective voice to express their frustration against any additional cuts to the Maintenance Grant and further Higher Education austerity. The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) warned the Government last week, that students are ready to demonstrate their electoral power in the upcoming Seanad referendum. With voter registration drives underway on campuses across the country, USI expect to have 10,000 students registered on the Student Elector Registration […]
[…]constituencies and local TDs. USI is also today launching its Pre-Budget Submission, which calls on the protection of the student maintenance grant and the Back to Education Allowance, a fairer and more affordable postgraduate loan scheme and investment in the European Youth Guarantee. Speaking at the launch, Joe O’Connor said: “Decisions made by Government in the upcoming Budget could have potentially dire consequences for students and their families. 76,600 students depend on maintenance grants to support them through college. These students and their parents form a voting block of approximately 214,480 voters across every constituency, enough to have a decisive […]
[…]ad spot. If you’d like the chance to win the tickets, just go to our Facebook page, watch the video and tell us on FB where they met that girl. We really can’t make it simpler than that. Terms and Conditions If you don’t like the Terms and Conditions below, please don’t enter the competition. We like good deals for students and we want to make students aware of them. The companies we run competitions for aren’t seeking your details from us and we won’t give them away. We won’t share your details with any company, and any details stored in […]
[…]are delighted to be engaging with the local community in Carlow. Many of our students rely heavily on the grant in order to progress in college. And it’s not just current students who will suffer from the cuts in grants and the rise in fees but also the students who will be attending college in the years to come. We aim to make people aware of this and reach as many local people as possible”. Ciara Guinan USI VP Southern Region: “Students play a vital role in the local community in Carlow and in communities’ right across the country. Communities […]
[…]responding online. The participants were of mixed gender and sexuality. The report focused on the following areas; Unwanted Sexual Experiences, Physical Mistreatment, Harassment, Obsessive Behaviour and Information on Campus. Some of the key findings highlighted in the report include: 16% of respondents experienced some form of unwanted sexual experience while at their current educational institution 1 in 5 women surveyed experienced some form of unwanted sexual experience, with 11% experiencing unwanted sexual contact Just 3% of respondents who had an unwanted sexual experience reported it to the Gardaí The largest proportion of victims of unwanted sexual experiences identified the perpetrators as […]
[…]drive. 50,000 student voters will be registered this year, joining 120,000+ students already on the electoral register. These voters will be connected directly with their local politicians through a high-tech database management and communication tool. USI’s National Campaign, ‘Fight For Your Future Now’, was also launched this week, which will see students right across the country display vigorous opposition to any attempts to further target third-level student supports by the Government. “Students and families are already at breaking point, and the cost of college continues to increase. This week, an ILCU survey showed that 84% of families are already struggling […]
[…]in low-paid part-time jobs to get themselves through college, in many cases with a negative effect on their study time and academic output. The crisis in youth mental health issues in this country is being accentuated by the financial burden which many vulnerable students are having to bear in their pursuit of a college degree. The average student maintenance grant, at €84 per week, does not even cover rental costs alone according to the figures published in this study, and does not compare favourably to the lowest rate of Jobseekers’ Allowance in this country, at €100 per week. But this […]
[…]reported in yesterday’s Irish Independent, with a view to increasing the quality of the education and student experience being offered to Irish third-level students. Many of the areas which the performance targets will measure, such as student retention, participation in research, employability, a focus on disadvantaged groups and teaching and learning excellence, are fundamentally in line with USI policy in delivering the highest possible quality Higher Education system which can act as a vehicle for economic recovery. However, USI also cautions against HEI’s drifting from their core strengths and student needs in their pursuit of targets and criteria, and on […]
[…]not acceptable and isn’t something USI could ignore. We’re delighted that the reaction to the article was so effective that College Times was forced to remove the article from their website. In commentary to newspapers today, Joe O’Connor, USI President, gave the following statement: “The article was crass and insensitive in the extreme and will have been read by many as misogynistic, predatory nonsense. USI wholeheartedly condemns the article and we’re delighted that so many student activists and friends put the effort in to showing this up for the dismal attempt at edginess it is. It’s unfortunate that this appears […]
[…]IGLYO and the National Youth Council of Ireland, has issued a letter to the Russian Ambassador on the torture and persecution of LGBT teenagers in Russia. Irish youth groups have handed in a letter of concern to the Russian Ambassador today to protest at the violent treatment of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender young people in Russia after a gay teenager who was allegedly kidnapped and beaten by neo-Nazis died of his injuries. BeLonG To Youth Services, The Union of Students in Ireland (USI), The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) and the International LGBTQ Youth and Student Organisation (IGLYO) […]
[…]Students’ Union have shot down claims from Trinity College Dublin President Patrick Prendergast on the reintroduction of third level fees. This is a response to Prendergast’s call on RTE show “Aoibhinn & Company” that the reintroduction of third-level fees needs to be examined, reported in today’s Irish Daily Mail. Prendergast suggests that a student loan scheme should be investigated alongside full fees being charged by Higher Education Institutes. Tom Lenihan, TCD Students’ Union President said: “These comments by the Provost are unwelcome and inappropriate as the Student Hardship Fund is more hard pressed than ever before. For the past few […]
[…]22 August. The whole website will be offline from 09.00 until 19.00 IST. Aims are: Reduce load times by rationalising CSS and calling fewer elements Provide space for a new commercial endeavour coming soon Integrate Facebook, Google + and Twitter into the site. Integrate listings from ents.usi.ie into the […]
[…]your money for students. Geared towards first year students with practical advice, information and planning tools. Space for full-page adverts and rear cover advert. (published in August / September in time for students joining college – distribution of 15,000) The Student Rent Book USI provides the Rent Book to all students. It contains information on students’ accommodation rights, advice and an actual rent recording book. Space for full-page adverts and rear cover advert. (Published in August / September in time for students joining college – distribution of 15,000) Pink Training The largest LGBT event in Ireland and the largest LGBT […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. Following the weekend that saw London play in a historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. “Behind London’s great achievement in getting to the Connacht Final there is a tragic story of young and educated people who have had no choice but […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]DOMINATE ALL-IRELAND, STUDENTS WARN IRISH students today (THURSDAY) warned that GAA teams from London, New York and Australia will soon end up dominating the All-Ireland Championships. On the eve of the weekend that will see London play in an historic Connacht final, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) highlighted the unprecedented numbers of qualified graduates being forced to leave Ireland. More than 120,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 have emigrated in the last four years. And, of those who have stayed behind, one in two graduates had no work at all in 2012. Pictured in Waterford yesterday […]
[…]O’Connor, President of the Union of Students in Ireland said: “The annual survey on the cost of living for students conducted by DIT Campus Life and covered in today’s Irish Independent, confirms something which Students’ Union officers beginning their terms of office right across the country today are acutely aware of. Costs of living are increasing, student supports have reduced significantly as a result of recent grant cuts and other measures, securing part-time employment is more difficult than ever, and the wider impact of austerity and the economic downturn has taken its toll on families. This has created the perfect […]
Overview The Union of Students in Ireland now seeks to recruit a Communication and Research Executive, whose main role will be supporting the officers and staff of the union to resource, evidence-base, project and promote the messages and campaigns of the union to its members, public representatives and varied publics. The CRE will be a core member of our staff, as comfortable photographing hundreds of students protesting, publishing groundbreaking research and supporting the president in preparations for Morning Ireland. The successful candidate relishes the challenge of taking the messaging functions of USI to the next level and appreciates the thrill […]
[…]a long way towards ensuring that the next generation is a healthy one. This will help to build upon the knowledge currently attained through the Social, Personal and Health Education by students, starting at junior infants through to third year in secondary school. Whilst there are many activities under way in many third level institutions, there is a need to determine effective and co-ordinated approaches throughout all third level institutions. Why is it important to promote physical activity? The “Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health” (World Health Organization, 2010) highlights the importance of physical activity in relation to the […]
PRESS RELEASE Monday, April 15, 2013 For Immediate Publication The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) welcomed the recommendation of the Constitutional Convention on marriage equality yesterday, as 79% voted in favour of the Government taking action to provide equal access to civil marriage. 81% also voted in favour of providing protections for same-sex families and their children. The Government will publish its decision on what it will do with the recommendation within four months, including a decision on whether or not a referendum will be held on the issue. USI was one of the most prominent groups at the […]
[…]of the student experience”. Objectives of the Union of Students’ in Ireland: An education and training system open to all, irrespective of any consideration, including consideration of national origin, ethnic background, age, ability, sex, sexuality, creed, political beliefs or economic circumstances, so that each individual can realize their full potential. An education and training system which truly serves the interest of the people of Ireland. The right of students to a decent standard of living including the right to adequate financial support, proper housing and future prospects of employment in Ireland. The defense and promotion of all democratic and human […]
[…]Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has made a submission to the Constitutional Convention on equal access to civil marriage in Ireland. The submission is a comprehensive document outlining USI’s position in favour of marriage equality in Ireland. It also contains personal testimonies from students about what it was like to ‘come out’ and why marriage equality is important to them. In her contribution to the submission, recently graduated Louise* talks about the inherent inequality that meets young people when they identify themselves as LGBT: “I truly believe that the depression, isolation and loneliness experienced by many young LGBT people […]
[…]Logue, President of the Union of Students in Ireland said: “The statements made by Louise Phelan on the quality of Irish graduates seem to be based almost entirely on anecdotal evidence and hearsay, with no reference whatsoever to research carried out in this area. The overwhelming evidence suggests that Irish graduates are not lazy, they have realistic expectations as regards what to expect in an entry level position and they are more than willing to learn new skills to meet the demands of their employers. An employer’s survey carried out by the HEA reported that 70% of employers are confident […]
[…]27, 2013 For Immediate Release The following is a statement from USI President John Logue on the results of the USI affiliation referendum in UCD: “It is with great regret that I note the results of a referendum of UCD Students’ Union (UCDSU) which will result in its disaffiliation from the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). Throughout the referendum campaign, students who favoured disaffiliation felt that UCDSU should adopt a more local focus for the foreseeable future, in light of its financial difficulties. We recognise the unique circumstances in UCD. It’s clear that the decision taken by its […]
[…]and talking about them. At Durex, we are committed to raising awareness of sexual health education and the importance of safer sex, which is why we are delighted to support the USI with such an important campaign.” Seamus Creighton, Women’s Health, MSD: “We recognise that trying to decide which contraception to use can be confusing with so many choices out there. It is so important though for every woman to be aware of the wide range of options available to her and that the contraception she chooses can be tailored to suit her lifestyle. www.talkoptions.ie is a great starting point in exploring […]
[…]in Ireland today The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is running a series of seminars in 2013 on the topic of ‘Women in Society’. The first seminar takes place this Monday in University College Cork at 7.30pm in the O’Rahilly Building. The purpose of the seminars is to generate a discussion around questions such as: What is it like to be a woman in Ireland today? Do we still need feminism? Why aren’t women represented more in the media and in politics? The seminars will feature a range of female speakers from different backgrounds who are working in leadership […]
[…]Support Ireland (SUSI) reveal that 5,575 students, 28% of successful applicants, are still waiting on their first grant payment. An external review of SUSI will begin in the coming weeks in order to implement a major overhaul of the agency ahead of the next academic year. The centralised grant awarding agency has singularly failed to make the grant processing system more efficient and, as a result, many students are in serious financial difficulty. John Logue, President of the Union of Students in Ireland said: “As students return for the second term of the year, over 5,500 are still desperate for […]
[…]all students regardless of their country of origin. The USI Equality and Citizenship Officer sits on the Board of Directors of ICOS, the Irish Council for International Students http://www.icosirl.ie/eng. USI and ICOS organise international students’ fora each year and are currently working on a staff training DVD for those working with international students. Through ICOS, USI is represented on the High Level Group, which advises the Government on the implementation of the International Education Strategy. Disability College is one of the most rewarding experiences and having a disability should not stop you from having the best few years of your life. […]
[…]and what makes them smile. Twitter competition: #WhatMakesYouSmile – join the conversation and tweet a picture of what makes you smile to be in with a chance of winning a ‘Feel Good’ hamper. Denise McCarthy, USI Vice President for Welfare said: “The mental health of Ireland’s young people is more important than ever, as students and families face increasing financial stress. This campaign is about helping our members to identify the small things that can make their college days easier. We’re also encouraging students who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health to avail of college support services. We […]
[…]grant rates and parental unemployment. Mr Cummins’s comments were made at USI’s Public Meeting on the Cost of College. It was the first in a series of meetings that will take place in cities and towns across Ireland over the coming month. The meeting was attended by Town and County Councillors from the Dundalk and Drogheda areas. Sinn Fein leader and Louth poll topper Gerry Adams TD also attended the meeting. Deputy Adams said that he supported USI’s ‘Fed Up? Stand Up’ campaign and urged students to mobilise at a local level. He said that students must force their local […]
[…]outlined recommendations for legislation to allow transgender people to change the gender marker on their birth certificates. The GRAG recommends that applicants must fulfil the medical criteria of a Gender Identity Disorder (GID) diagnosis or present evidence of gender reassignment surgery. GID is classified as a mental illness. The Rally for Recognition is part of a global campaign. Every October, since 2007, an International Day of Action for Trans Depathologisation is called with demonstrations held in cities world-wide. The campaign aims to raise awareness that being trans is still considered a mental disorder and demands the depathologisation of trans identities. […]
[…]emotionally prepared for it, while 20 per cent were pleased to have lost their virginity. Susan Donlon, coordinator for prevention education and training at the Dublin Aids Alliance says: “This is our ninth year supporting Durex with National Condom Week and we did not hesitate to commit our time and energy again. We are thrilled that this year Durex has supplied us with 30,000 condoms to distribute to communities throughout Ireland, including young people and at risk groups. Our mission is to improve conditions for people living with HIV and AIDS, their families and their caregivers, while actively promoting HIV […]
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[…]be ashamed to seek help and no-one should ever have to suffer in silence.” DkIT Students’ Union and DkIT Student Counselling Service will provide workshops and information sessions on the day as well as formally launching DkIT Mental Health Guidelines. As part of their on-going support on campus, DkIT Student Counselling Service will also be facilitating the “Living Life to the Full” programme in conjunction with AWARE from the 17th of November. USI Vice President for Welfare Denise McCarthy said: “As the cost of college increases every year, students and families are subject to significant financial stress which can lead […]
[…]weekly or monthly budgets that will help monitor their income and expenditure. Online version Online version here, for use in online stories: http://issuu.com/theusi/docs/usistudentfinanceguide moneyMatters2012-POSTER USI Vice President for Welfare Denise McCarthy said: “As students and families struggle to cope with the ever-increasing cost of college and brace themselves for a harsh Budget, USI’s Student Finance Guide is intended to provide information on how they can best manage college finances. The expert advice on managing debt and savings included in the guide will help families to budget for tuition fees, rent and the living costs. The guide also features easy-to-use budget sheets […]
President Michael D. Higgins is to meet with representatives from the Union of Students in Ireland and its member Students’ Unions tomorrow in Áras an Uachtaráin at 4.30pm. The meeting is intended to give student representatives a chance to discuss the President’s Being Young and Irish 2012 initiative. The Being Young and Irish 2012 initiative seeks to advance the national discourse on inclusion by harnessing the power of young people, enabling them to participate and be more involved. The President is inviting young people aged 17 – 26 to contribute practical suggestions for the improvement of Irish society through an online consultation […]
[…]officers (but check out Welfare Officer Denise McCarthy’s introduction to the Rent Book on the right hand side of this page) USI has developed this site entirely in-house, using the open-source WordPress […]
The Union of Students in Ireland has called on the Labour Party to re-affirm its commitment to free college education ahead of its annual Parliamentary Party think-in. In the Sunday Independent the Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn said that it was time to re-negotiate the Croke Park agreement. 80% of the Department of Education’s budget is spent on pay and pensions and the Croke Park agreement renders this untouchable. USI urges the Minister and his colleagues to urgently seek a re-negotiation of the agreement in order to ensure that students and their families won’t be targeted for further cutbacks and fee increases. […]
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[…]many families. The Student Grant is available to many students, assisting them with the Student Contribution Charge and offering additional finance to cover living costs such as rent, food and college […]
[…]human resource management and risk management. The President reports to National Council on the work of Governance Committee and Governance Committee makes an annual report on its work to Congress. Sub-committees or working groups may be set up by Governance Committee as needed with the approval of National Council. In order to fulfill its responsibilities, Governance Committee undertakes the tasks detailed in the Constitution and Handbook. Key responsibilities include: 1. Implementing good governance practice 2. Managing finances 3. Managing Human Resources 4. Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements 5. Managing risk 6. Working […]
[…]policy making body of the Union. It makes policy, establishes the principles of the organisation and can amend the constitution. It is composed of representatives from each member students’ union, apportioned according to the size of the student body in each union. Comhairle Náisiúnta / National Council Comhairle Náisiúnta is the executive body of the Union. It meets at least eight times annually and is representative of the leadership of each students’ union from all over Ireland, North and South. It meets at various locations all over Ireland. Executive Team The Executive Team (formerly Officer Board) is the committee of […]
[…]newspapers today. Coverage of the launch, including a large photo were published in both the The Irish Times and The Irish Independent. Thanks to all in IADT Students’ Union for their help with hosting the launch. Here’s the book. Paper copies are available from all USI member students’ unions in the Republic of Ireland [issuu width=550 height=374 embedBackground=%23000000 titleBarEnabled=true backgroundColor=%23222222 documentId=120820110850-9400444116084baab18b794a25b30a3a name=rentbook2012 username=theusi tag=accommodation unit=px […]
[…]said that Ireland has prided itself on an education sector that produces the best and brightest the world has to offer. “However, with increasing pressure on funding we are starving ourselves of the chance to live up to this aspiration. Now, more than ever, the Government need to realise that education is not a luxury, it is an economic imperative”, Mr Logue […]
[…]CAO offers, Campus Times aims to provide students with expert advice and guidance as they decide on their college career. Campus Times will host a live Q&A stream so that students and parents can have immediate access to the information they need to make informed decisions. USI has produced a number of videos for the site with the help of student volunteers and Students’ Unions from around the country. USI hopes to continue developing the project with the Irish Times to provide an online hub for student news and discussion of third level education. Student journalists and contributors will provide […]
[…]in Ireland (USI) This morning, a young man named Patrick Kelleher wrote a column for thejournal.ie on the in-betweeners. The students who don’t qualify for the grant yet can’t afford the ever-increasing Student Contribution Charge (SCC). Patrick has just completed his Leaving Cert and is currently trying to find a way to pay for the SCC, which now stands at €2,250. Both his parents are working, his mother has three jobs, and yet they still can’t gather the €5,000 necessary to send both Patrick and his sister to college this September. His argument is simple and it’s one that USI […]
[…]a TD and Senator to offer insights and tips for the student representatives. O’Rourke now serves on the board of directors for Educate Together and has appeared on popular RTE shows such as ‘Celebrity Bainisteoir’ and ‘Sex and Sensibility’. Speaking about the challenges facing higher education, the Chief Executive of the Higher Education Authority, Tom Boland, is expected to repeat the grim message he has delivered in recent media appearances. Boland has stated that the higher education sector is in financial crisis and requires more investment. Speaker Times: HEA Chief Tom Boland, Monday July 16th, 17:15 – 18:00 Mary O’Rourke, […]
