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[…]‘hustings’ Q&A session by video and submit them to USI. So far, the following videos have been received: Annie Hoey – 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 […]
[…]the mental health and academic output of students, and increases pressures on families already struggling with recessionary times but determined to keep their sons and daughters in third-level education. The Union of Students in Ireland, in partnership with Amárach Research, will be carrying out a survey of third-level students throughout the summer months, collecting data on the financial situation of students and their families at present and how this is impacting on their mental health. It is clear that the cashflow difficulties and financial difficulties facing the students of today have reached breaking point for many, and my USI Officerboard […]
[…]Independent 25/11/13 Students protest over third-level cutbacks RTE 01/10/13 USI News on […]
[…]people who come to learn in their institution. “Again we 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 seems to just have been an election year stunt, hoping that no one will look beyond the headlines.” USI was originally told that the new Student Accommodation Strategy would be published last summer – the current plan runs from 2017 to 2024, but its promises have not been implemented. That plan promised regular progress updates, but the last of those was published in Q3 of 2019. Members of the USI Coiste Gnó met with Minister Harris last Thursday, before Friday’s announcement, but were not given any concrete information on when this strategy would be published or any details on […]
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 […]
[…]in order to be able to help friends and family members who may have suicidal thoughts, this World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September). The Union is also taking the opportunity to express its appreciation for the third level mental health funding recently announced by Minister Simon Harris, but also to recognise and highlight the need for sustainable annual core 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 […]
[…]support services is available on PleaseTalk.ie. Many Students’ Unions across the country are running events and campaigns today to mark World Mental Health Day, and Welfare Officers in Students’ Unions are available to listen and offer peer support to any students in need of help. Following the hugely successful Mental Health Reform campaign where 21,000 people signed a petition calling on Minister Kathleen Lynch to ensure the €35m of funding committed for community mental health services is allocated and spent, USI congratulate the work carried out on this campaign and encourage the Minister to act in delivering these crucially important services. […]
[…]students getting part-time jobs and enough hours to support their studies, many are even struggling to obtain a PPS Number, while 67 per cent of international students say they are concerned they will not be able to pay their rent. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said: “The ban on evictions was reassuring for many international students, but the concerns about being able to pay rent remain. Many international students will have expected to pick up casual work to support their studies, but that is proving challenging in the current crisis. This is especially difficult for students who have arrived more recently […]
[…]students that are in need of expert advice as they try to make the right decisions. USI’s videos will give them a sense of what to expect from college and our student representatives will also provide advice on the accommodation hunt and how to apply for a maintenance grant. In the long-term, we hope Campus Times will serve as a hub for college news and discussion of third level education. We want student journalists to provide quality content that will engage and enthuse student readers. If students engage with Campus Times they will become more informed and more concerned with […]
[…]health only receives approximately six per cent out of the overall health budget, compared to the international standard of 12 per cent. USI strongly believes that mental health is fundamental to our overall wellbeing and should receive the attention, care and funding to recognise its importance in people’s lives. We ask that you take the complexities of eating disorders and the neglect in providing adequate services seriously. We trust you as Ministers to act on this matter with the utmost sensitivity and urgency. Sincerely, Clare Austick USI Vice President for Welfare Lorna Fitzpatrick USI […]
[…]this latest edition of the USI and Residential Tenancies Board guide to student accommodation and finance, or just read it […]
[…]when they need extra help to look after their mental wellbeing. “We tell students not to struggle alone and to reach out for help when they need it, but we have to make 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 […]
[…]USI Finance Committee, November 2018 Minutes of USI Finance Committee, October 2018 Minutes of USI Finance Committee, August 2018 Minutes of USI Finance Committee, January […]
[…]need for annual, sustainable funding to be committed to this important area.” As part of the World Mental Health Day 2020 activity, USI and Students’ Unions across Ireland will publicise socially distanced candlelit photo-shoots held outside their colleges highlighting the mental illnesses students reported having in USI’s Student Mental Health report published in late 2019, and how they can be supported. Considering one in four people struggle with their mental health, the aim is to illustrate the scale and different types of mental illnesses and destigmatise the negative associations attached to them. Another aim is to emphasise to students the importance of […]
This accommodation and finance guide, prepared by the Union of Students in Ireland and the Residential Tenancies Board, will be arriving in Students’ Unions soon. This sneak preview gives you a roundup of all the most important information a student about to attend college should know about where they’re living and concerns about cash. Accommodation and Finance Guide […]
[…]been introduced for international students. By supporting the enactment of the Health Insurance (International Students) (Amendment) Bill 2021 you will be supporting international students and the higher education sector in Ireland. On behalf of the members of the Union of Students in Ireland, we urge you to support this Bill and ensure that this inequity is rectified before the start of the Autumn academic term. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter with you, however if you have any questions on the matter please do get in touch. Le gach dea-ghuí, Lorna Fitzpatrick, President, Union of Students in Ireland Marie Lyons, Equality & Citizenship Vice President, Union of […]
[…](01) 618 3055 Senator David Norris E: david.norris@oireachtas.ie T: (01) 618 3104 Senator Lynn Ruane E: lynn.ruane@oireachtas.ie T: (01) 618 3277 Fianna Fail Senator Robbie Gallagher E: robbie.gallagher@oireachtas.ie T: (01) 618 3087 Senator Keith Swanick E: keith.swanick@oireachtas.ie T: (01) 618 3736 Fine Gael Colm Burke E: colm.burke@oireachtas.ie T: (01) 618 3115 Sinn Fein Máire Devine E: maire.devine@oireachtas.ie T: (01) 618 […]
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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 seriousness of the situation and urgency for a referendum is not ignored. A recent Amnesty International and Red C Research & Markets poll found that 80% of people would vote yes if a referendum were held, and 87% of the public want access to abortion expanded. Every day for the next twelve weeks, 12 people will join the vigil outside Leinster House. The increasing numbers will remind political leaders of the amount of women anti-abortion laws negatively affect when they are forced into temporary exile from Ireland to access their human rights day after day, week after week. “USI […]
[…]pick up a copy from their Students’ Union when the term begins. USI Accommodation & Finance Guide by […]
[…]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 so that students can keep track of income and expenditure. Information is provided on all available financial supports for students. USI strives to make college as affordable as possible for its members and this guide will help students […]
[…]“homosexual propaganda” law that has been introduced and implemented by the lawmakers of the Russian Federation. Congress notes with concern: That the Russian LGBT community is living in conditions of extreme oppression while coping with acts of violence on a daily basis. Congress is disgusted: That the group calling themselves “Occupy Paedophilia” is allowed to attack perceived members of the LGBT community with almost complete immunity from the law. Congress is opposed: To the regime that has been imposed upon the LGBT people in the Russian Federation and conveys solidarity with those who are risking their own lives to fight […]
[…]or managing your money. Here are some support available to you: USI & RTB Accommodation and finance guide, 2018 Threshold – Is a national charity that offer advice and are working towards ending homelessness RTB – Residential tenancy board have an online dispute service if you’re having troubles with your landlord MABS – A money advice and budgeting services which is free, confidential and independent. Click the link below to find out more about USI affiliated college rental […]
[…]in the tens of thousands. The reports from the Ukrainian Government on April 12th about the Russian usage of chemical warfare against Ukraine. The needs civilians will urgently need to international aid. On Sunday 10th April, Minister for Equality and Integration Roderic O’Gorman said more than 20 thousand refugees have already arrived in Ireland. Congress Notes: The calls from many different organisations for support in fundraising for non lethal supplies to assist people in Ukraine. Congress Mandates: USI Coiste Gnó to provide resources to member organisations which wish to fundraise for non-lethal supplies to Ukrainian citizens. The Coiste Gnó to […]
[…]available for download and screenshot: https://usi.ie/?p=4545 Event: Launch of Accommodation and Finance Guide Locations: Trinity College at 11.30am Tuesday 19 August The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has launched a new Accommodation and Finance Guide today in Trinity College Dublin (TCD), with support from the PRTB (Private Residential Tenancies Board). This comprehensive guide is a useful resource for students and gives great tips and advice on student life. The guide covers accommodation advice, money management, personal safety and settling into college. Easy-to-use budget sheets and rent book logs are included, enabling students to keep weekly or monthly budgets that will help monitor their income […]
The Union of Students in Ireland launched this first ever Student Finance Guide in September 2012 [issuu width=420 height=286 embedBackground=%23000000 backgroundColor=%23222222 documentId=120921110727-15370e5f30ee4af0835082e7f80a82af name=usistudentfinanceguide username=theusi tag=banks unit=px […]
[…]of the website, with a corporate focus for the 20% of the rest of development. We aim to put out news of campaigns and issues first, and support our members engage with those issues and campaigns, along with the structures and systems 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 […]
[…]can download a copy of the new Finance and Accommodation Guide here >> USI and RTB Finance and Accommodation Guide 2017 The Finance and Accommodation Guide details the rights students have as tenants, and it is particularly useful for students who are renting for the first time. The guide notes the need to ensure you have a record of all payments, including rent, either electronically via bank transfer or within a rent book provided by your landlord. There is a rent book also available within the guide. While there is no legal obligation for a landlord to provide a written […]
USI Encourage Students to ‘Share the Load’ on International Men’s Day Studies find that 8 out of 10 suicides are men (80%) Today, the Union of Students in Ireland and the 3ts have joined forces in suicide prevention and positive mental health initiative ‘Share the Load’ in IT Sligo. The initiative includes a public display of 105 backpacks, representing the average number of people of college-going age who die by suicide in Ireland each year. ‘Share the Load’ encourages conversation about the impact of suicide in colleges in addition to urging students to connect with the many mental health supports […]
[…]intend to stay there until they can deliver a letter outlining their demands to one of the senior finance ministers. The main aim of the National Students Action Group, an offshoot of the national 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 […]
[…]the lease, and not be penalised unfairly on their deposit. The guide also provides information on finance and gives budgeting tips for students to financially manage the college year. “USI is delighted to be launching the 2016 Finance and Accommodation guide with the RTB.” Annie Hoey, USI President, said. “It will really help students, especially those moving away from home for the first time, with tips on finding accommodation, what to do once you’ve found the accommodation, and what to do to organise yourself before starting college.” USI is urging students to do their best to sort out accommodation in […]
[…](GSU) oppose the move, recognising the serious impact that this will have on the wellbeing and finances of the students affected. USI, which represents 374,000 students and students from TCD, is determined to campaign alongside these unions to reverse this hike. Michael Kerrigan, USI President, said, ‘Two weeks after the Government largely ignored the plight of students across the country in Budget 2018, we have yet another example of the unfairness and inequality at the heart of higher education in Ireland. With the increase in rent in Dublin, and supports for post-graduates being left aside, this fee hike is an […]
The Union of Students in Ireland is shocked and devastated at news of a serious incident in Berkeley, California, resulting the apparent deaths of Irish students. Initial reports say that a balcony collapse has killed six people and injured seven – and that at least some of the deceased are Irish students. Laura Harmon, USI President, said: “The thoughts of the whole student movement are today with the families and friends of those students caught up in this terrible event. Like the classmates and loved ones of those involved, we await further information from the authorities. Every year thousands of students […]
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[…]session considered the consequences of Brexit for European Higher Education, with a focus on international mobility, the internationalisation of qualifications, and research collaboration. Students’ Union News: In relation to the SIPTU/USI campaign, LYITSU registered 82 ECCE students to SIPTU this week, 1st year and 4th year groups all signed up without question which shown the care they have on their professions. USI Elections Spotlight (Local Hustings): <u Waterford Institute of Technology SU – Tuesday 14th March in the Auditorium on the WIT Cork Road Campus. Time TBC. Contact: supresident@witsu.ie for further information. University College Cork SU- 15th March @ time and room […]
Targeted Cuts will be met with Targeted Voting […]
[…]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 […]
[…]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 […]
[…]including phone numbers, emails, Twitter handles, and biographies can be found here. Watch out for videos introducing your USI Executive for 2020-2021 in more detail over the coming week. With so much change ongoing as a result of the pandemic, your USI team is ready for another busy year ahead seeking to place the student voice at the centre of all third-level education decisions and […]
[…]Social and Cultural Rights as well as other international human rights documents to which Russia is a signatory.” Videos have also recently emerged online showing LGBT young people being exposed to luring, bullying, torture and forced outing. And, according to Russia’s leading research agency, the Levada Center, approximately 74% of Russians consider members of the LGBT community to be mentally ill. The Letter from BeLonG To, NYCI, USI and IGLYO requested that the Russian Ambassador meet with them to discuss the situation. “Today we send a message of solidarity and support to our Russian peers – young people like ourselves […]
[…]from August 20th to September 10th, with winners to be announced by September 30th. The submitted videos will be assessed and shortlisted by the IRC and USI, with the winner being chosen from the shortlist by an external judging panel. The overall winner stands will receive prize of €500. Our judging panel will also be selecting two runners-up for most creative video and most informative video, with the winners of each winning prizes of €250, respectively. Eligibility The call is open to all postgraduates registered to a higher education institution on the island of Ireland, regardless of funding or area […]
[…]reflect the diversity of the student body, incorporating mature, part-time, distance learning and international students.” Speakers the launch today (Thursday) included Professor Stuart Brand, Director of Learning Experience at Birmingham City University, and Marese Bermingham, Head of Strategic Student Engagement and Retention at Cork Institute of Technology (CIT). The full report of the Working Group on Student Engagement, including the principles developed by the group, is available at: […]
[…]and to discuss targeted solutions at solving accommodation issues across Europe and how to support international and Erasmus students. Membership News Sanitary CarePacs in DITSU The Vice President for Equality and Citizenship launched DITSU’s #CarePac initiative this week in Bolton street, where packs with sanitary towels, pads and tampons will now be made freely available by the Students Union. LGBTI+ Youth Strategy The National LGBTI+ Youth strategy is being formulated under Minister Katherine Zappone and the committee overseeing its development is being chaired by journalist and commentator Una Mullally. Síona Cahill, USI Vice President for Equality, sits on the […]
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[…]President’s initiative and his willingness to engage with young people in a meaningful and constructive manner. Presidents from twenty three Students’ Unions will attend the meeting, along with USI’s Officer Board. The visiting Students’ Unions include: Institute of Technology Blanchardstown Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design & Technology National University of Ireland Galway Waterford Institute of Technology IT Tallaght National College of Ireland St. Angela’s College Sligo Dublin Institute of Technology Limerick Institute of Technology Letterkenny Institute of Technology NUI Maynooth Dundalk Institute of Technology University College Dublin University College Cork Institute of Technology Carlow Trinity College Dublin Institute of […]
[…]cultural origin, sexual orientation or social standing. Its member organisations are also student-run, autonomous, representative and operate according to democratic principles. The aim of ESU The aim of ESU is to represent and promote the educational, social, economic and cultural interests of students at European level towards all relevant bodies and in particular the European Union, Bologna Follow Up Group, Council of Europe and UNESCO. Through its members, ESU represents over 15 million students in Europe. Activities Since decisions concerning higher education are increasingly taken at the European level, ESU’s role as the only European-wide student platform is […]
[…]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 you believe you have information that will be useful for the Working Group, please email it to president@usi.ie with “SLWE Submission” as the subject line by 24th of […]
[…]institute on the island of Ireland, regardless of funding or area of research. How to Apply Videos and application forms can be submitted by email to communications@research.ie. You are asked to fill in a short application form found on the top right hand of this page on www.research.ie and to check a box to confirm that you have familiarised yourself with the IRC Data Protection Notice, which can be found here. Note: The application forms will be only be available to download from June 1. Videos should aim to be three minutes in length and no more than five minutes. […]
[…]by someone feeling suicidal and those bereaved by suicide. www.sosadireland.ie About Soroptimist International of Drogheda: Soroptimist International of Drogheda form part of the largest service organisation for women worldwide. Soroptimists inspire action and help create opportunities to ensure that women worldwide enjoy equality and have greater access to education and healthcare. http://dsoroptimist.wordpress.com/ About the Union of Students in Ireland (USI): USI is the national representative body for Ireland’s 250,000 students in third level education. www.usi.ie For further information please contact: Sorcha Lowry, See Change Communications & Partnership Coordinator, T: + 1 8601620 M: + 86 7954391 E: slowry@seechange.ie Twitter: […]
The Union of Students in Ireland is today saddened by the news of the passing of our friend and colleague, LIT Students’ Union Vice-President Steven Kavanagh. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult and challenging time. Steven was 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 […]
[…]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 balloon ride in the park and free ice cream as part of International workers day. The campaign continues during the exam period via our photo competitions and students have a chance to win ticket to the zoo and concerts. For more information on the Irish […]
[…]exams moved to allow as much opportunity to vote as possible. https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/dcu-students-given-time-to-vote-in-marriage-referendum-31071947.html?fbclid=IwAR1cpa8NwfrjjJQ2PQo_asqx3jrCNhlyVwBFx20SxGUVSfYLlB3D6oWVCCg April 2015 Under the leadership of USI President Laura Harmon and Vice President 540 people gather in a rainy Dublin one month ahead of the Marriage Equality referendum to break the world record for the largest human heart. Video footage of the day can be seen here: Photos from the Big Love Event May 2015 USI announces that as a result of extensive voter registration drives in colleges across the country ahead of the referendum, that 27,633 students have registered to vote! USI launches the […]
[…]to student leaders and activists across Ireland, who feared that efforts were being made to frustrate the process and lead to a referendum date outside of term time, when many students would be unavailable to vote due to J1 visa commitments as well as the timing of state examinations. USI President Michael 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 […]
[…]on the Government of Ireland, the European Union and its allies to act immediately against the breaking of these fundamental international humanitarian laws. On October 9, Israeli Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, publicly showcased the disproportionate nature of the response of the state of Israel on the people of Gaza when he stated: “I have ordered a complete siege on the Gaza strip. There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel, everything is closed. We are fighting human animals, and we act accordingly.” This statement indicates a complete disregard for the lives of the people living under siege in Gaza, […]
[…]even consider introducing Income Contingent Loans and putting students into €20,000 debt while trust in how funds are managed are now 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 […]
[…]will keep students in education, such as mental health facilities, will only result in students struggling through college, deferring places or dropping out. USI Deputy President and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Bryan O’Mahony said: “Simply increasing third-level places gives Government the chance to have positive headlines on CAO day, but without proper accommodation provision and adequate investment in colleges and universities, it is not going to achieve the aim of opening-up access to third-level qualifications. “When a student can’t afford their next meal or needs to work long hours to meet their college and accommodation costs, we have failed […]
[…]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 […]
[…]do not have the space to study. USI Equality and Citizenship Vice-President Megan Reilly welcomed news that the Department of Justice and Equality has written to university presidents urging them to provide alternative accommodation for students in Direct Provision. Megan said: “Students in Direct Provision are in very tough circumstances during these times. They do not have the space or privacy in which to study and get their college work done. They are most likely sharing rooms with the rest of their family or others. There are empty rooms now in a lot of student accommodation buildings and they should […]
[…]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 much-needed announcement today. It is vital now that the review hears the […]
[…]event in DCU Students’ Union, encouraging more candidates to get involved and how to run for election. The Vice President for the Southern Region created a policy on personal safety and water safety. On Tuesday 1st, The USI and Amnesty International facilitated the first of a series of regional ‘Students for Choice’ workshops on lobbying for a repeal of the 8th amendment. The first one was in TCDSU. The next will be in NUIGSU on March 14th, and to register, email youth@amnesty.ie. The Vice President for Academic Affairs finalised preparations for the 33rd European Students’ Convention, which is to be […]
[…]people would make it out to be.” Donoghue maintains that politicians should be delighted at the news. “Time and again politicians have argued that free third level education would be great if it was viable. Well now we are being told that it is.” USI is calling on political groups to ensure that a move to fully publicly-funded education is included in programme for government. “Considering our reliance on a highly educated work force for economic growth, the value it brings in a social and economic sense, and the opportunities it creates where there otherwise might be none it is […]
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NEWS RELEASE On Tuesday 20 January, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) will launch its campaign to secure a ‘YES’ vote in the forthcoming marriage equality referendum. See the new website voteforlove.ie USI believes that equal access 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 […]
[…]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 in society have been taken advantage of to the point where 429 students had declared themselves homeless on the night of the 2016 census, that number does not include the students who are couch surfing with friends or spending 6 hours a day on public transport just to gain an education at third level. Today however, we cautiously welcome […]
[…]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 the bedrock for the development of a sustainable economy and a vibrant society. Students in Ireland and their families are already paying through the nose for higher education, and pay the second highest fees in Europe. Student supports have been savagely cut over the last decade. Ireland now […]
[…]your story in confidence. The Vice President for Welfare met with Problem Gambling Ireland and Rutland centre on Gambling control bill lobbying and campaign. Finalised preparations for the Irish Survey of Student Engagement (studentsurvey.ie) starting next week. The Vice President for Equality & Citizenship was appointed to National Advisory Panel for the ESHTE (Ending Sexual Harassment and Violence in Third Level) Project by the National Women’s Council of Ireland this week. The project will formally launch early April. USI completed and submitted a submission to the National Women’s Council. You can read our submisison here. The Vice President for Equality […]
[…]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 to date and to plan for second phase of field work. Met with the project manager of a scoping group aimed at identifying ways in which learning analytics can enhance student support. USI met with the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) to discuss protection of student nurses and midwives pay on placement, what further supports are needed and […]
[…]of the majority of staff and students at Trinity College. A recent poll carried out by Trinity News showed 76 per cent of students agree they have been effective. Protests that the college deem to be in line with their ‘rules’ would not work. That is not real protest. Through the fine and ongoing threats of more fines or exclusions from the college, management is punishing students for caring about the university’s complicity in genocide and about current and future students who cannot afford to pay high rents or more fees and are essentially being sent the message that third-level […]
[…]title=”USI Finance Committee 8 October 2018 MINUTES”] Minutes of USI Finance Committee, August 2018 Minutes of USI Finance Committee, January 2018 [embedder url=”https://usi.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/USI-Finance-Committee-7-January-2018-MINUTES.pdf” title=”USI Finance Committee 7 January 2018 […]
[…]which focus on the future of the students in Ireland.” gradireland #FYI is a ground-breaking initiative designed to enable students to understand their career options and to help them make better-informed career decisions. Developed in partnership with AHECS, gradireland #FYI has created a series of videos with recent graduates demystifying some of the jargon around modern careers; telling students what working in various sectors is really like; and detailing the skills they’ll need to be successful. This practical, straight-talking advice is backed up by careerpath graphics, showing students exactly where their skills can take them, providing much-needed aspiration and inspiration […]
[…]other issues. USI want to ensure that students’ health is at the forefront of any campaigns we run/support in the future. Accordingly, It has been determined we are not best served doing that in partnership with Drinkaware”. USI look forward to working independently with similarly positioned bodies and organisations as ourselves, in the future. Notes: Read the Irish Time’s coverage here and the letter sent to Meas chief executive Fionnuala Sheehan here. Take part in the Newstalk Poll: Do you think alcohol awareness campaigns can be effective if funded by the alcohol industry? here. For more information contact USI Communications and Research […]
[…]will be reviewed by a ‘rapid’ working group. USI 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 […]
[…]should make sure to get theirs in early.” “The last thing you want is to be without a grant or news of your grant come September because you didn’t apply on time” she stated. She also had advice for students who were having difficulty in their application process, “If you are struggling with the application call into your Students’ Union or call the SUSI helpline. There are people there to help if you are having any […]
For the Government to commit to increasing the threshold and allocation given through the Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) grant scheme. The DIT Campus Life survey details the on average the total cost to attend third level education in Dublin, with the total cost coming around to €11,000 per annum. While USI expresses its gratitude in extending and increasing eligibility for grants in recent years – especially in Budget 2017 towards postgraduates. Unfortunately 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 […]
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[…]decision to return the €25m withheld from colleges in the 2013 and 2014 budgets is good news for education – but represents a drop in the ocean of required investment for third level education – which will experience a 1% cut in wage related and non-wage related expenditures. However, less positive in the budget for students is the decision to stick by pre-planned increases in the student contribution fee – a major increase in the cost of college, on top of already historically high accommodation rental prices. USI welcomes announcements on provisions to build more housing, which should in due […]
[…]to the arguments debated in the panel category of choice. The winning students will be invited to Brussels to receive the awards and visit the EU institutions. More details on the Student Challenge will be available on the conference web page. After January 17, the portal will also include videos of the panel […]
[…]have been reassured by the Higher Education Authority that this will not be the case. It is also crucial that student services, which have borne the brunt of considerable cuts over the past number of years, are protected at a reasonable level and do not continue to be subjected to further […]
[…]Welfare USI said: ‘Having sex with someone who cannot consent, because they are too drunk or are in fear, is rape. USI’s recent ‘Say Something’ study showed victims do not report incidents of sexual violence because they thought that they would be blamed for what happened (22 per cent). Additionally, in over six in ten cases (64 per cent for Women, 62 per cent for Men) the victim themselves were under the influence of alcohol at the time. This belief is dangerous. It is never the fault of the victim even if they have been drinking or taking drugs. It is important […]
[…]of how trans people are treated by the health system in Ireland, saying it falls far below international human rights standards. The current system sees trans people waiting up to five years to even start accessing care, and GPs are not allowed to prescribe hormone replacement therapy to their trans and non-binary patients. A survey by TENI (the Transgender Equality Network Ireland) examining trans healthcare in Ireland found that 78 per cent of respondents thought about ending their life while transitioning or on a waiting list, and 40 per cent said they had made at least one suicide attempt. USI […]
[…]Bacik, Labour John Paul Phelan, Fianna Fáil Lisa Chambers, Fianna Fáil Lynn Ruane, Independent Mairead Farrell, Sinn Fein Marc O Cathasaigh, Green Party Martin Kenny, Sinn Fein Michael Healy-Rae, Independent Mick Barry, People Before Profit Ned O’ Sullivan, Fianna Fáil Pa Daly, Sinn Fein Pádraig O’Sullivan, Fianna Fáil Patrick Costello, Green Party Paudie O’Sullivan, Fianna Fáil Paul Donnelly, Sinn Fein Pauline O’Reilly, Green Party Peadar Toibin, Aontu Roderic O’Gorman, Green Party Roisin Shortall, Social Democrats Ruairi O Murchu, Sinn Fein Thomas Gould, Sinn Fein Violet-Anne Wynne, Independent The flyer we gave out on the day is below – click in to […]
Urgent and transformative action must take place to show there is zero tolerance for sexual violence and harassment in third level education after another report highlighted the extent of the problem, says the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). Over a third of all referrals to the Sexual Violence Centre in Cork in 2019 were third-level students, according to the organisation’s annual report released on Thursday. This follows the concerning findings from the USI and NUI Galway Active Consent’s Sexual Experiences Survey published in June, which found that 29% of female, 10% of male, and 28% of non-binary students reported […]
[…]has the following message for students: “The processing of grant applications is once again running pretty smoothly. We are expecting to receive around 105,000 applications for the 2017/18 academic year. We have received 80,000 applications to-date and I would urge students to apply before the deadline of July 13th to ensure that their applications receive priority”. The national awarding authority has already awarded grants to more than 41,000 students for 2017/18, including 10,500 new students. Mr. Doyle added: “Leaving Certificate students should not wait until they receive their Leaving Certificate results and CAO offers late in August before applying to SUSI. […]
[…]four years living in Direct Provision in Ireland – in the midst of a global pandemic. The news of the deportation order comes in the week that residents of Caheersiveen Direct Provision centre have undertaken a hunger strike in protest at the conditions in their residence. All at USI offer our full solidarity to the 32 people taking the action due to complaints about issues, including the rationing of food and water, not being taken seriously. The USI calls on Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee to immediately halt the deportation of the two students who faced prosecution and violence before […]
[…]on what it’s like to be a woman 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 […]
[…]in Ireland on their experiences of accommodation and wellbeing and what can be improved. The first International Students forum will take place on April 21st in the TCD Global Room from 5-7pm. Registration is free – just email equality@usi.ie. The Vice President for Welfare alongside the Vice President for Campaigns meet with the head of National Office Of Suicide Prevention (NOSP) in relation to rolling out mental health training and campaigns for the third level sector. The Vice President for Welfare attended launch of mental health first aid with Minister for Mental Health and Older People Helen McEntee and Anne […]
[…]before the campaign was set to launch. Vice President for Equality and Citizenship travelled to Brussels to a European Students’ Union (ESU) seminar on refugees and higher education. Watch our video for the USI elections […]
[…]have a negative impact on international students themselves as well as undermining Ireland’s own International Education Strategy. Along with the Irish Council for International Students, we are calling on the Government and Minster Alan Shatter to reverse this fee […]
[…]cash terms and against inflation. We said many times that families and students were approaching a breaking point – and it’s clear from this report that that point has long been reached. A review of the effectiveness of current grant levels needs to be quickly undertaken.” On the wider issue of student drop-out, she added: “I very much welcome the chair of the Higher Education Authority’s desire to get to the bottom of student dropout – and USI will of course support his efforts with solid evidence and representation from across the country.” Accommodation Crisis High among the reasons for […]
[…]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. We have been hearing how angry students are at the way they have been treated year after year, and today was an outlet for that anger.” They continued: “USI has been talking constantly about how we have the worst student accommodation crisis ever and of the hardship that students are facing because of the soaring cost of living. And today students showed in huge numbers how bad the situation is. But this is just the beginning. Today was a […]
Extensive 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 […]
[…]for students to be run out across the country in third level institutions. This project will run for 9 months. USI will be recruiting a full-time Mental health Project Manager. Applications for the role mentioned are already live. Candidates can apply for the job here: […]
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 […]
[…]Threshold and SpunOut.ie to spread our campaign to different audiences. We used images, polls, videos or quote tweets to make our commentary real-time 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 […]
[…]nurses and midwives COVID-19 pandemic grant are not being treated as reckonable income, the same rule should apply in this instance. USI has 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 […]
[…]Cahill said: “This is a perfect example of acting locally but thinking globally. Sara is a young international business student, much like many of our members. We are really looking forward to hearing how our actions and decisions go beyond a simple cup of coffee and have a positive impact on the world we live in.” USI Vice President for Equality & Citizenship, Aisling Cusack added: “Students have responded to the need to reduce single use plastics and cut down on waste – and now we’re beginning to focus on what we’re putting inside our shopping baskets and inside our […]
General: USI won Zero Budget Social Media Campaign at the Social Media Awards Ireland. USI were finalists in the Best Twitter Business Campaign and Best Twitter Account for Non-Profit too. See the full list of finalists here. Waterford IT Students’ Union hosted the USI National Council where officers from around Ireland discussed issues related to welfare, academic affairs and equality and citizenship. Policy and Campaigns: The USI Vice President for Equality & Citizenship along with NUS-USI President and NUS UK VP for Society & Citizenship attended and spoke at NUS-USI’s ‘Big Gay Wedding’ outside Stormont in Belfast on Monday 22nd of […]
[…]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 more equal place for all citizens, USI is launching a website that portrays the vital role the student movement played during the Marriage Equality Referendum. Students, Students’ Unions and the USI […]
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 […]
[…]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. Laura Harmon, the USI Vice-President for Equality and Citizenship will be speaking at the rally along with other speakers from ILGA-Europe, Amnesty International, Gay Doctors Ireland, BeLonG To Youth Services, LGBT Noise, Transgender Europe (TGEU) and Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI). Laura Harmon, USI Vice-President for Equality […]
[…]support their LGBTQ* employees. USI met with the HSE to further a campaign on alcohol and drugs harm reduction for students. USI Elections Spotlight (Local Hustings): NUI Galway SU – Monday 27th February @ 7.30pn in IT250. Contactsu.president@nuigalway.ie for further information. IT Sligo SU – Tuesday 28th February @ 7pm in Room A0004. Contact president@itssu.ie for further information. Maynooth SU – Thursday 2nd March @ 6pm in John Hume Boardroom. Contact: president@nuimsu.ie for further information. Trinity College Dublin SU – Tuesday 7th March @ 7pm in Stanley Quek Theatre, Trinity Biomedical Institute. Contact: president@tcdsu.org for further information. IADTSU – Tuesday 7th March @5pm in Room TBC. Contact: presidentiadt@gmail.com for further information. Waterford Institute […]
[…]youth turn-out in this referendum will make students and young people a core demographic to be truly considered and reckoned with in the General Election vote, whenever that may be called. The referendum campaign doesn’t belong to any one section of our society or to any one organisation. It belongs to Ireland and we all have a responsibility to engage with it. It’s important also that the discussions and debates in the media that will ensue aren’t dominated by older voices. Young people need to be at the heart of these debates and discussions. As someone who identifies as gay […]
[…](Fine Gael, Dublin Rathdown) - Raised as Written Q on Tuesday 17th November Richard Bruton TD (Fine Gael, Dublin Bay North) - Raised as Written Q re. Pandemic Unemployment Payment eligibility on Wednesday 7th November. Senator Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael, Longford) - Raised in Seanad on Tuesday 10th November Willie O’Dea (Fianna Fáil, Limerick) - Raised as Written Q on Thursday 12th November. Cathal Crowe (Fianna Fáil, Clare) - Raised in Oireachtas Committee on Health on Wednesday 11th November. Niamh Smyth TD (Fianna Fáil, Cavan-Monaghan) - Raised in Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party Meeting on Tuesday 2nd December. Also raised as Written Q on Tuesday 8th September. John McGuinness TD (Fianna Fáil, Carlow-Kilkenny) - Raised in Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party Meeting on Tuesday 2nd December. Dara Calleary TD (Fianna Fáil, Mayo) - Raised in Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party Meeting on Tuesday 2nd December. James O’Connor TD (Fianna Fáil, Cork […]
[…]is commonly referred to as Digs. What is the USI Finance & Accommodation Guide? The USI Finance & Accommodation Guide is a useful source of information for students moving out of home and renting during college with checklists, tips, space to record inventory and space top keep a record of rent paid. Where do I get my free copy of the USI Finance & Accommodation Guide? Please visit your local Students’ Union for your FREE copy or you can read the online copy on https://usi.ie/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/A5-Web-version.pdf What should I check when I’m viewing accommodation? Check that all appliances are working, check […]
[…]for adverts or major sponsor (published in August – distribution of 15,000) The Student Finance Guide The guide to managing 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 […]
Thank you for downloading this Finances Spreadsheet. Hope it’s useful. If the idea of finance spreadsheets is stressful, please click here for a picture of a […]
[…]for students to financially manage the college year. “USI is excited to be launching the 2017 Finance and Accommodation guide with the RTB” Michael Kerrigan, USI President, said. “The Finance and Accommodation Guide is every student’s go-to resource while living in rented accommodation. USI want to ensure students coming to college for the first time know their rights as tenants, and can budget for the year. The average cost of college is €12,500, and USI research shows 58% of students are spending between €256 and €500 for accommodation a month. The cost of accommodation is proving difficult for students and […]
[…]in Russia’ is a violation of freedom of expression and prevents LGBTQ people in Russia from accessing vital information. Russia has become a place of violence and intimidation for LGBTQ people. The international community and corporate sponsors cannot stand idly by and ignore these human rights violations. USI will be urging our politicians to confront Russian representatives on this issue.” Vladimir Dotsenko, a Russian national working as a mathematics lecturer in Trinity College Dublin will be speaking at the protest to urge the participants to put pressure on politicians to confront Russian representatives on the topic of LGBTQ rights and […]
[…]Childers said, “[Labour’s] mandate with [its] members and the public is being stretched to breaking point.” She wrote of the need to discard the orthodoxy of austerity and urged parliamentarians to demand that Labour’s distinct policies be delivered. One of these policies is a commitment not to increase fees and to protect the maintenance grant. USI President John Logue said: “There is now a consensus building around the need to re-negotiate the Croke Park agreement. Pat Rabbitte, Brian Hayes, James Reilly and Leo Varadkar have joined Minister Quinn in his call for pay and pensions to be examined as a necessary […]
[…]with the Council of the EU, based on European Commission proposals) Supervisory (Democratic scrutiny of all EU institutions) Budgetary (Establishing the EU budget, together with the Council) Did you know that there’s 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 […]
[…]and the Charter of the United Nations. The settlements have also been declared illegal by the International Court of Justice and the UK government with Amnesty International stating that “Israel’s settlement policy is inherently discriminatory and has resulted in grave human rights violations including destruction of homes, forced evictions, unlawful killings, arbitrary detentions and collective punishment”. Congress believes: That Israel should end its occupation of the Palestinian territories and allow the return of Palestinian refugees in accordance with international law. That the Palestinian people are entitled to the same human rights, dignity of person, self-determination, security and parity of esteem […]
[…]Ireland and the Irish Research Council congratulate David, Ailbhe and Antonia on their exceptional videos and to all the finalists and participants for their commitment to communicating why research matters in Ireland and in the world […]
[…]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 currently seeing students waiting for up to six weeks to see a counsellor. Students are facing depression, anxiety, loneliness, substance misuse, and suicidal behaviour and can’t get the support they need. In light of the considerable demand of college, students are experiencing difficulties with their mental health as colleges budget allocations […]
[…]Irish students to study in Europe by 2020. According to Europa.eu, 64% of employers consider an international experience important for recruitment. On average 92% are looking for transversal skills such as openness to and curiosity about new challenges, problem-solving and decision-making skills, confidence, tolerance towards other personal values and behaviours. Donoghue also stressed that funding for higher education grants for research from the EU would be cut if Britain decides to leave the EU which will also affect Irish students who apply to these research […]
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[…]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 that one counsellor for every 2,240 students is enough. Also, it is not fair for Government to expect these services to operate from year to year, only finding out in mid-December what funding they are getting for the following year. It is practically impossible for them to plan or to hire counsellors that will sign up […]
[…]rights of all people, the right to protest. The right to peacefully protest is codified in the International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights to which India is a signatory. The government of India must recall its commitment in this international covenant and end the repression of these protests and fully investigate the acts of violence and allegations of sexual harassment carried out by state forces. The Citizenship Act which has led to these protests is a law discriminating against those fleeing persecution. It fits in wider with the aims of the Government which seeks to bring forward an ideology […]
[…]rights of all people, the right to protest. The right to peacefully protest is codified in the International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights to which India is a signatory. The government of India must recall its commitment in this international covenant and end the repression of these protests and fully investigate the acts of violence and allegations of sexual harassment carried out by state forces. The Citizenship Act which has led to these protests is a law discriminating against those fleeing persecution. It fits in wider with the aims of the Government which seeks to bring forward an ideology […]
[…]about what to do next about getting somewhere to live”, Mr Kerrigan said. “The USI and RTB Finance and Accommodation Guide details the rights students have as tenants, and it is particularly useful for students who are renting for the first time. Students should also check out homes.usi.ie if they are finding it tough to find suitable and affordable accommodation during the accommodation rush.” Mr Kerrigan urged students to be cautious stating, “Use cheques or bank drafts to pay the deposit and keep copies of receipts of payments and any correspondence. Don’t hand over any cash to anyone, because you […]
[…]trial, which has, in the meantime lead to further erosion of basic, constitutional liberties and international governmental responsibilities. We are asking students to join us at Amnesty International Ireland’s protest today, between 5:30pm and 7pm outside the Egyptian embassy, to stand in solidarity with Ibrahim and his family, and to urge the Irish government to increase the pressure on Egyptian authorities and help bring Ibrahim […]
[…]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 90% of students in favour combined with the high turn-out among young voters, was a key factor in the success of the Yes campaign “ “In October 2014 we embarked on a focused Voter Registration promotion and continued this process into 2015 with […]
[…]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. Ther are disability supports services on each campus and […]
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[…]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 […]
[…]to educate themselves, be aware of the issue and help de-stigmatise people who are dependent on drugs through the language we use. We have worked with the HSE to create student-specific content on Drugs.ie, which we feel will be very useful for students. “Today we want to celebrate each individual’s journey to recovery and their bravery and courage. However, this is only the start, we intend to build upon the day and mark this occasion for years to come. We need to see substance dependency as a health issue and not a criminal offence and to put in place the […]
[…]non-essential functionalities on our website. These functionalities include embedding content like videos or sharing contents on the website on social media platforms.Preferences: These cookies help us store your settings and browsing preferences like language preferences so that you have a better and efficient experience on future visits to the website. How can I control the cookie preferences ? Should you decide to change your preferences later through your browsing session, you can click on the “Privacy & Cookie Policy” tab on your screen. This will display the consent notice again enabling you to change your preferences or withdraw your consent […]
[…]non-essential functionalities on our website. These functionalities include embedding content like videos or sharing contents on the website on social media platforms. Preferences: These cookies help us store your settings and browsing preferences like language preferences so that you have a better and efficient experience on future visits to the website. How can I control the cookie preferences ? Should you decide to change your preferences later through your browsing session, you can click on the “Privacy & Cookie Policy” tab on your screen. This will display the consent notice again enabling you to change your preferences or withdraw your […]
[…]years today since his imprisonment. USI will be outside the Egyptian Embassy today with Amnesty International, along with actress and activist Pauline McLynn, calling for his immediate release. Speaking ahead of the protest, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “Beyond all doubt, Ibrahim’s detention has gone on far longer than justifiable, and very little pressure seems to have come from Government to resolve the situation and have a fair trial or release secured for Ibrahim, who is an Irish citizen. “If his name was Brian and he was from somewhere in Dublin or Kildare this wouldn’t have been an […]
PHD Student Access to Disability Allowance and Medical […]
[…]its kind and scale in Ireland. The study took place earlier this year between January 10th and February 15th 2013 with over 2,750 third level students 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 […]
[…]as possible to join the march. “We need to keep putting pressure on the Irish government and the international community to act to end the ongoing genocide in Gaza. And getting people on the streets is the best way to show that this is what the people of Ireland demand.” Saturday’s demonstration is calling for: An immediate ceasefire to end the genocide in Gaza Ending Israeli apartheid once and for all Expelling the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland The Irish Government to place pressure on the EU to call for a ceasefire and refer the current leadership of Israel to International […]
[…]AF 1 MOTION TO INTRODUCE INCREASED USI FINANCE COMMITTEE TRANSPARENCY Congress notes: The significant responsibility that USI Finance Committee has towards the organization and the powers it holds under the constitution including: The drafting of the USI Annual Budget Regulation of Officerboard’s terms and conditions of employment The setting of expense rates Congress further notes: The inadequacy of a brief annual update on USI Finances to Member Organisations. Congress also notes: The responsible decisions made by USI Finance Committee and the need to maintain confidentiality in relation to certain decisions. Congress therefore mandates: The President a quarterly update to National […]
[…]outside the EU, are now enabled to return to education in Ireland without being treated as an ‘international student’ and the exorbitant level of fees which that brings. However, this is merely a stopgap measure and gesture. The ‘push’ factors leading to forced emigration in Ireland now need to be properly addressed, including real investment in tackling the youth unemployment crisis, and an end to the internship culture which has been allowed to develop. While a significant improvement over the international/non-EU levels of fees now exists for the small number of young people who find themselves in this situation, the […]
Nominations re-open Nominations for the position of VP Welfare have reopened today, Tuesday 25th February, 2014. Nominations must be submitted prior to 5.30pm on Friday 7th March 2014. Candidates must be nominated by two member organisations which are in benefit. Nominations must be presented on the headed paper of the member organisation and signed by the President of the member organisation. Nominations may be submitted by bemailing a scanned copy of the nominations to elections@usi.ie or by facsimile to +353 (1) 447 5081 marked for the attention of Elections Committee. Candidates are required to submit documentation proving their membership of USI prior to the close […]
[…]the resourcing of a higher education infrastructure which can best meet contemporary national and international challenges and demands.” Today, the Irish state funds 14 institutes of technology, seven universities and six colleges. While the public higher education sector has expanded to meet growing demand, funding has not kept pace with this development. Regrettably, it has decreased significantly. In the last seven years funding in the higher education sector was cut by 32% (over €428.3m). Aidan Kenny, Assistant General Secretary at TUI, welcomed the joint campaign by USI and TUI in support of free publically funded higher education. “It is vital […]
[…]choices for the future of higher education in Ireland Ireland’s education system could be a world leader, where students ought never be constrained by their ability to afford courses, USI President Lorna Fitzpatrick has told an education sector seminar today. The leader of Ireland’s students was speaking in response to remarks by Minister for Higher and Further Education Simon Harris at the Future Forward event ‘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, […]
[…]consultations for the LGBTI+ Youth Strategy, which will be the first of it’s kind in the world. IT Sligo Students’ Union hosted the Sligo consultation on Wednesday 10th May, and the next consultations are Dublin (Saturday 13th), Galway (Tuesday 16th), Waterford (Wednesday 17th) and Dundalk (Thursday 18th). If you would like to register for any of these events, please contact Síona on equality@usi.ie asap if you are LGBTI+ and are between 15-24. The VP Equality has partnered with Amnesty International on a ‘sit out’ event organised for next Wednesday 17th of May, on the day of Ibrahim’s 23rd proposed […]
[…]equally participate in college life by driving change through awareness, training and support structures. The events taking place this week play an important role in this, reminding us all of our shared responsibilities in creating a culture of zero tolerance to sexual violence and harassment, both on and off campus.” USI Vice President for Welfare, Róisín O’Donovan said: “Despite developments in the area of consent in third level, sexual assault is still a stark reality on campuses, and this day of action is a reminder that we can’t get complacent and there is still work to be done.” USI Vice […]
[…]standing in solidarity with Ibrahim Halawa. Please join us today and assemble outside the Amnesty International offices on Fleet Street in Temple Bar at 5:30pm and add your voice to the call for Ibrahim’s immediate and unconditional release. Tomorrow, on the 11th December, two days before Ibrahim’s 20th birthday (he was 17 when he was first imprisoned), USI will be running a #FreeIbrahim campaign in campuses across Ireland. Please take a picture of yourself with a ‘Happy Birthday Ibrahim’ postcard, share it on social media, sign it, attach a stamp to it and send it to the Irish Embassy (address […]
[…]as a result of the economic downturn caused by the measures taken to stop the spread of the virus. “Just yesterday, the Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe outlined that the country is headed for a severe recession and the Irish economy is expected to shrink by over 10 per cent. “Students have already been severely impacted by the pandemic, including those hoping to start college in the autumn and they do not need another uncertainty hanging over them. “At the moment, SUSI applicants are being told they can apply for a ‘change of circumstances’ as is the normal process every […]
In an open letter to the Irish Government, USI alongside spokespeople for organisations: Amnesty International Marriage Equality Yes Equality Irish Council for Civil Liberties Belong To Irish Congress of Trade Unions outlined their frustration that people within the LGBT community in Northern Ireland can still not lawfully marry one another. “It is wholly unacceptable that, years after the introduction of equal marriage legislation in every other part of the UK and Ireland, same-sex couples north of the Border should continue to face discrimination.” Read more […]
[…]include but not exclusively the VP of regional developments and the VP of campaigns keeping the news on each forum current with pictures of all relevant events that take place. 12 UO 22 ÓGRA CONFERENCE Congress notes: The diverse range of political parties that exist in Ireland and acknowledges that many of these parties have Ógra branches operating in our members organisations. Congress acknowledges: That such a diverse organisation as USI represents members with a wide variety of political opinions and beliefs. Congress mandates: The President or Vice President Campaign of USI to attend all Ógra Conferences for the […]
[…]ends in 2018. Thus leaving six years for Ireland’s third level students to become indebted to a finance programme that is privately run and profit-driven. Not even in the U.S. does this situation exist. The government there offers student loans and the majority of students who opt to take a loan favour the federal route. USI’s main priority is, and has always been, to ensure access to education for all students regardless of their socio-economic background. There is no avoiding the conclusion that an escalation of ‘debt culture’ combined with consistent increases in fees will lead to the exclusion of […]
[…]horizons and striking out in other countries to learn more about their chosen subject and the world around them; we are deeply saddened by their loss. Last night’s attacks in Brussels, across the metro network and the airport in that city, have left thirteen people dead; families devastated, children without parents and parents without children. Our student movement is, of course, powerless to confront the geopolitical mess creating these appalling atrocities; nevertheless we’ve always been unafraid to stand up for peace, at home and abroad. I know that you will want to send a message of sympathy […]
[…]flash surveys that will give us a glimpse into specific issues for example the experience of international students or those who have had to repeat a year or come off books due to mental health, as well as producing some reports detailing deeper analysis of the data already […]
[…]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 research, what you have learned or hope to learn, and why you feel this research matters. Upon completion of your video, upload it to your preferred hosting service (i.e. YouTube) and then fill out this form to enter, don’t forget to include the link to your video in […]
[…]these costs. The chronic delay with grant payments is stretching the patience of landlords to breaking point. They are putting students under immense pressure to come up with payments that are now months overdue. USI is calling on the Minister to ensure that SUSI has all necessary resources to complete grant payments by the end of the month.” -ENDS- For more information contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or email […]
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[…]to be prepared in light of the funding gaps left by the over-reliance on private income such as international student fees and student accommodation. International students bring much more than funding to our education system and should never be treated as mere funding […]
SAVES2 is an international campaign aimed at third-level students, targeting a measurable and significant reduction in energy use amongst students. The programme was borne of a brilliant idea in the UK, which was championed by the National Union of Students. In 2017, Ireland joined an international coalition of universities from around Europe, to bring SAVES “Student Switch Off” to four Universities in Ireland. Staff hall of fame Key to the future success of the Student Switch Off are the students and staff working in accommodation and energy efficiency in Universities across Ireland, backed by a tiny team of staff inside […]
SAVES2 is an international campaign aimed at third-level students, targeting a measurable and significant reduction in energy use amongst students. The programme was borne of a brilliant idea in the UK, which was championed by the National Union of Students. In 2017, Ireland joined an international coalition of universities from around Europe, to bring SAVES “Student Switch Off” to four Universities in Ireland. Staff hall of fame Key to the future success of the Student Switch Off are the students and staff working in accommodation and energy efficiency in Universities across Ireland, backed by a tiny team of staff inside […]
[…]of the legendary Madiba. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” Yours sincerely, Joe O’Connor President Union of Students in […]
[…]and promotion festival, as well as the thirtieth anniversary of the ERASMUS programme and International Women’s Day – all of which create foci to the event. The Union of Students in Ireland secured the convention out of sequence – the event normally shadows the European Council presidency – but delegates were happy to fly in to Galway in advance of the European Student Union Board Meeting which will take place in Malta. Speaking at the opening session, USI President Annie Hoey paid tribute to the work of students’ unions across Europe, and expressed her hope that the week in Galway […]
[…]and promotion festival, as well as the thirtieth anniversary of the ERASMUS programme and International Women’s Day – all of which create foci to the event. The Union of Students in Ireland secured the convention out of sequence – the event normally shadows the European Council presidency – but delegates were happy to fly in to Galway in advance of the European Student Union Board Meeting which will take place in Malta. Speaking at the opening session, USI President Annie Hoey paid tribute to the work of students’ unions across Europe, and expressed her hope that the week in Galway […]
[…]the upcoming Northern Ireland Assembly elections. Also on the website is advice and guidance for international students about voting. Today USI is hosting the USI Women Lead Project to empower women students to lead. The residential weekend is supported and hosted by Accenture. It features modules on public speaking, self-care, leadership development, self-branding and campaign organisation. The Vice President for Equality Citizenship has been appointed to the steering committee responsible for implementing the review of the Student Assistance Fund and this week attended its first meeting on behalf of USI. The VP Southern Region and the VP Welfare drafted support […]
[…]students from overseas. Colleges are more than ever in the business of filling classrooms, and the rules allow non-EU students to be shaken down for much more money than EU students. Students from overseas pay enormous fees to study in Ireland, and Brexit may well make Ireland even more attractive. – USI has always welcomed students from across the world, and entirely understands the attractiveness of Ireland as a place to study. We are concerned by the prospect of students from overseas being exploited to alleviate the underinvestment in Ireland. As supporters of the local economy in this country, we […]
[…]unique in offering global recognition for your undergraduate coursework, assessed by a panel of international academic experts. Winners also receive an all-expenses paid trip to The Global Undergraduate Summit in Dublin in November. All work must be anonymised and of a 2.1 grade or higher (predicted grades are accepted). See full guidelines and submit for free online […]
[…]nurses emigrate Ireland once they qualify, Ireland will be deporting essential skills, talent and finance,” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “It’s easy to see why so many student nurses have considered emigrating once they’re qualified. A lot of those who move to England to start their careers have their flights, first month’s accommodation and postgraduate paid for.” More than 1,000 nurses are set to retire from the health service by next June. Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation General Secretary Liam Doran spoke about how the hospital overcrowding situation is affected by the amount of staff. Mr Doran said that the […]
[…]nurses emigrate Ireland once they qualify, Ireland will be deporting essential skills, talent and finance,” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “It’s easy to see why so many student nurses have considered emigrating once they’re qualified. A lot of those who move to England to start their careers have their flights, first month’s accommodation and postgraduate paid for.” More than 1,000 nurses are set to retire from the health service by next June. Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation General Secretary Liam Doran spoke about how the hospital overcrowding situation is affected by the amount of staff. Mr Doran said that the […]
[…]until the date of close of nominations all expenses claims for all USI officers will be scrutinised to ensure that no expenses are paid where the purpose of a visit or expenditure is, or could be construed to be electioneering or gathering of nominations All press releases to be processed by USI staff must first be approved by the President The following rules will come into effect on the date of close of nominations: A strict purdah will be applied to all announcements, releases and events. All announcements, releases and events will be referred to the President who will allocate […]
[…]come so far but we still have a long way to go. The role of the youth in 1916 was primarily disruption. Today, their role is still disruption but a different kind – instead of focusing on freedom of country from foreign rule they are pursuing freedom from the chains of inequality. In 1916, anyone wanting to reach wide audiences needed to do so through the church or traditional media. Today, Ireland’s youth are more empowered through social and digital creation and consumption with Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Whatsapp and Snapchat. They do not need a pulpit in a packed Cathedral […]
[…]to live, the likelihood is that it’s costing significantly more, at a time when student finances are already past breaking point. Some opt to spend multiple nights sleeping on couches or in hostels every week, others aren’t even able to attain that. There is now a real danger that this will start to impact on retention rates and it requires immediate attention from Government.” Harmon’s warning comes less than a month before CAO offers are set for release. Parents and prospective students are already facing difficulties, with all 3,000 purpose-built student beds in the city now booked out for the […]
[…]student charges or reductions in the maintenance grant will merely serve to further attack struggling families already crippled by wider recessionary measures. We would call on the Government and Minister Quinn to have the costs of college at the forefront of their minds when making upcoming Budgetary choices- Third level is at breaking point and neither parents nor students can take any more.” -ENDS- For more information contact USI President, Joe O’Connor on 087-2191862, or USI General Manager, Ben Archibald on 01-9052091, or email […]
[…]of equals; for some it was a new dispensation for peace and democracy. For others around the world the Good Friday Agreement stands as a beacon of hope that even in deeply divided societies, communication between communities can realise peace and pave a way for democracy. For the students of Northern Ireland it means a life lived without fear of violence and the hope of prosperity and friendship for the future. That commitment was not new to students in 1998. A quarter of a century before, student leaders from across Ireland and the UK came together to lay the foundations […]
[…]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 in this Bill which will ensure that all […]
[…]around mental health, sexual health, physical health. Other areas include; accommodation, finances, consent, drugs & alcohol and other addictive behaviours, body positivity, eating disorders and bullying & cyberbullying. Chairs the Welfare working group at National Council to address local and national issues and plan national welfare campaigns. Sits on the following boards: Student Affairs Ireland, National Advisory Committee for Ending Sexual Violence and Harassment in Higher Education, SUSI Advisory Committee, THEA Promoting Consent and Prevention Sexual Violence Steering Group, alongside other national committees. Vice President for Campaigns: Main responsibility for organising USI campaigns, in collaboration with relevant officers. Has the […]
[…]top of the agenda when making Budgetary decisions. Fighting for the future of students now is crucial to the economic recovery of Ireland. USI President Joe O Connor says: “The maintenance grant has been hit in 4 consecutive Budgets, the cost of college continues to spiral upwards, and hard-pressed students and families have now very much reached breaking point. Students from all across the country are gathering in 3 regional locations today as one united voice- To send a message that any continued targeting of our most vulnerable members will be met with firm resistance. Higher Education is not public […]
[…]barriers to accessing a huge proportion of third-level institutions To overturn the need for international protection applicants to be in the direct provision system for three years before they can avail of third-level grants – those excluded from the Government grant scheme are required to pay international tuition […]
[…]of the Union of Students in Ireland, said. “The cost of education is pushing students to breaking point. It’s unaffordable and the compromises so many students have to make to stay in college, such as working to the point of burnout, ironically restrict their academic success.” USI stressed that the dropout rate and the rate of students who fear having to drop out of college is directly linked with the cost of education, and are calling on Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton to put more financial support in place for students such as increasing the maintenance grant, […]
[…]November 29), to support an occupation that is currently underway by TCD Students’ Union. On International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, TCD SU and TCD BDS have occupied a room in the university in order to display banners looking out on College Green calling for the college to end ties with Israel, and in support of the Palestinian people. TCD SU President László Molnárfi has also been in direct contact with Trinity’s Junior Dean and Provost to request, in the strongest terms, that they tell security at Trinity not to use force against their own students and Students’ […]
[…]ends in 2018. Thus leaving six years for Ireland’s third level students to become indebted to a finance programme that is privately run and profit-driven. Not even in the U.S. does this situation exist. As I said above, the government there offers student loans and the majority of students who opt to take a loan favour the federal route. USI’s main priority is, and has always been, to ensure access to education for all students regardless of their socio-economic background. There is no avoiding the conclusion that an escalation of ‘debt culture’ combined with consistent increases in fees will lead […]
[…]motions: 4.1.6 Motions at Congress shall take two forms: 4.1.6.1 Mandates Mandates instruct a member or members of the Officerboard, Committees excluding Finance Committee or National Council to perform certain tasks. The Mandates, which shall be contained in a published Mandates Manual, must contain a date specifying when the task is to be completed by, or when the Mandate shall lapse which may be a maximum of three years from the date of the Congress at which it was passed. Mandates may be removed from the Mandates Manual upon the completion of the task by the with the consent of National Council. […]
THE USI HAS WRITTEN TO THE JOINT OIREACHTAS COMMITTEE ON 8TH AMENDMENT AHEAD OF CRUCIAL VOTE The Union of Students in Ireland has written to all members of the Joint Oireachtas committee examining the 8th amendment, regarding the Committee’s final decision-making process. USI has written the letter jointly with other leading civil society organisations including the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI), the Abortion Right’s Campaign (ARC), the Coalition to Repeal the 8th Amendment, and Amnesty International Ireland, who are advocating for the repeal of the Eighth Amendment and the introduction of legislation mandating women’s and girls’ access to safe abortion […]
[…]to secure funding and keep the lights on. But screw the Hollywood clichés for a minute. The real truth of start-up life lies somewhere in between. Yes, there’s plenty of coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions where we plan world domination; there’s also late nights, almost-missed deadlines and panicky last-minute sales pitches. We’re a five-person team, mostly in their twenties, writing and blogging and designing a website that’s going to revolutionise the world of online shopping. Every single day is different. Yes, our (relatively) young age is one great benefit; it means our stamina for the manic days is that little bit higher […]
This is the E-Clár for USI Congress 2015. It’s the base for all USI Congress information, live and updated as it happens at Congress 2015. Timetable / Amchláir Motions before […]
[…]Research & Technology Society Education Campaign of the Year (sponsored by the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning): Student Safety Net, QUBSU Environmental and Sustainability Activism of the Year (sponsored by STAND): Aine Hennessy, TCDSU Equality Campaign of the Year (sponsored by AHEAD): Destigmatising Disabilities in Education, IADTSU Full-Time Officer of the Year (sponsored by Forsa): Collette Cassidy, UUSU Individual Contribution to Student Media: Thomas Copeland, Queen’s Radio International Student of the Year (sponsored by ICOS): Yi Kang Choo, QUBSU Mature Student of the Year (sponsored by Mature Students Ireland): Jenni Martin, UUSU Outstanding Mental Health Activism (sponsored by Samaritans): Jessica McMahon, MSU Part-Time Officer […]
For the Government to commit to part-time and further education students receiving the same supports that would be available to full-time students in similar circumstances and make a hardship fund available for students who are studying part-time and in further education. A number of support funds, including the Fund for Student with Disabilities, the Student Assistance Fund (SAF) and the Maintenance Grant are only available for students studying on a full-time basis in recognised Higher Education Institution. Part-time students are currently not able to avail of the same supports (despite the National Access strategy recommendations). The same restrictions apply to […]
[…]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 to meet the cost of third level. “75,000 students and their families depend on the grant each year, a grant that has been targeted in each of the last four Budgets. Any further cut to the grant will push these struggling families over the edge. “SERD, launched by USI this week, will mobilise these students and their families, creating a block of over 200,000 […]
[…]in Dublin Castle on the 18/05/2017. The Healthy Ireland Network launch was opened by former Irish Rugby International and current chair of the Healthy Ireland council Keith Woods, followed by contributions from An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Minister for Health Simon Harris and Health Promotion Minster for Health Promotion Marcella Corcoron Kennedy. The Purpose of the Healthy Ireland Network is: To establish and grow an empowering National movement through which Health and Well-being is seen as an individual and collective responsibility To support, advocate and ensure the Healthy Ireland message is spread, understood and acted on throughout Ireland USI was nominated […]
[…](5.6% APR). The move comes as students have finished the current academic year, and are looking at finance options for postgraduate studies. The new interest rates available at Bank of Ireland will make studying at 4th level a more affordable option. In addition, postgraduate students will be able to borrow up to €7,500 and defer repayments for up to one year while they complete their course of study. Joe O’ Connor, President of the Union of Students in Ireland, said “The cost of studying at postgraduate level is extremely prohibitive for very many people, and this has been an ongoing issue […]
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[…]investment in the unstable higher education sector is an option for government right now. Finance can no longer be used as the excuse, but rather it’s down to the priorities of our politicians. “Students and other sectors of Irish society are in crisis now. Government talks about having a reserve ‘rainy day’ fund, but we are drowning. Or will it just be a ‘rainy day’ for Government when the banks need bailing out again?” The full USI Pre-Budget Submission is available here and […]
[…]16th January 2014, 9.00am Open of Nominations for Elections. Thursday 13th February 2014, 5.00pm Close of Submission of Nominations. Thursday 20th February 2014, 5.00pm Deadline for Withdrawal of Nominations. Is muidne go beannachtach USI ELECTIONS […]
[…]2015, 9.00am Open of Nominations for Elections. Thursday 12th February 2015, 5.00pm Close of Submission of Nominations. Thursday 19th February 2015, 5.00pm Deadline for Withdrawal of Nominations. Is muidne go beannachtach USI ELECTIONS […]
[…]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 his children, family and friends today. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam […]
[…]the current crisis and referred to the issues that our members will face in the coming months. Breaking the barriers to accessing education has never been so important. The need for financial support for our members is clear. The uncertainty about the new year’s format is a major concern, but the executive team will ensure we do our all to represent students. As a movement, we cannot afford to become complacent. There are issues hurtling down the track at us and we need to tackle them head-on.” Just this morning, the USI teamed up with national housing charity, Threshold to […]
[…]Overdose Awareness Day, and USI is working with An Roinn Sláinte (The Department of Health) and drugs.ie to promote ways to keep our friends safe in the event of a drugs overdose. By knowing the signs and seeking prompt medical help for someone experiencing an overdose, you could save a friend’s life. We’ve teamed up to prepare new resources and information for students to help. You can see the new resources at […]
[…]and budgeting service). USI will be launching the ‘Money Matters’ – Student Finance Guide in September. The National Consumer Agency have developed a section of their website to help with your personal finances during college, please […]
[…]Annie Hoey said: ‘The accommodation crisis is deterring students, especially those from rural areas, from going to college, and long commutes are already negatively affecting the quality of their college experience.’ ‘We want to assess the actual situation of students across the country. Housing cannot be treated only as a market, but is central to the experience of the student, and whether or not they thrive at college. Investment in student accommodation is investment in reduced rates of wasteful non-completion and increased rates of study success.’ added Hoey. The National Student Housing Survey focuses on five areas: demographics, accommodation status and […]
[…]year’s local and European elections, and it will be continually developed and enhanced in the run up to the next general election. “Minister Quinn’s statements today that he will do ‘what he can’ to protect the maintenance grant provides little comfort to students and families already concerned about the affordability of college- When choices are being made around the Cabinet table in respect of the Budget the choice needs to be made to protect a Higher Education system at breaking point”. “There may have been an impression in the past that students made a lot of noise but didn’t back […]
[…]Monday 16 th January 2017, 9.00am Open of Nominations for Elections. Monday 20th February 2017, 5.00pm Close of Submission of Nominations. Monday 27th February 2017, 5.00pm Deadline for Withdrawal of Nominations. Is muidne go beannachtach USI ELECTIONS […]
[…]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 in identifying and expressing ourselves.” “The launch of ‘An Foclóir Aiteach’ means that members of the […]
[…]fossil fuels. Students went into occupation phase with a sit-in protest for the past 5 days in the Finance Office of the administration building in Queen’s. Queen’s University have at least £5.5 million invested in the fossil fuel industry. “What QUBSU are doing with their Fossil Free campaign is admirable.” Union of Students in Ireland President, Kevin Donoghue, said “They’re taking action against their university making new fossil fuel investments; they want their college to make a public statement pledging to divest to a low-carbon future with the QUBSU, and they want Queen’s to agree to a deadline to divesting […]
[…]to many students, assisting them with the Student Contribution Charge and offering additional finance to cover living costs such as rent, food and college […]
[…]of students said the high cost of college causes them anxiety or stress 72% of students are struggling financially to stay in college 40% are on a maintenance grant If fees go up, 63% of students said they won’t be able to attend college Which part of college fees do you struggle the most with? Rent (23.6%) Books, equipment and stationary (7.1%) Registration fee of €3,000 (41%) Laptop/ Printer (1.4%) Food, drink and living costs (17%) Transport (10.4%) How do you pay for your college fees? My parents pay (35.4%) I’m on a loan (7.5%) Grants (30%) I have a […]
[…]we say that the job of the colleges is to fulfill the educational needs of Irish society first and international league tables a distant priority. Research, teaching and the outcomes from them are equally important – and if we believe in a fair funding solution for higher education, that means increased investment from public funds. Teachers unions TUI and IFUT agree with us, and we’re supported in our plans by SIPTU.” -Ends- The Union of Students in Ireland argues that: a) Fees for college in Ireland are already the second highest in Europe, despite the pretense that a system of […]
As part of International Women’s Day, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is rallying students across Ireland to repeal the Eighth Amendment at Trinity College Dublin Front Square from 4:30pm. The rally comes as fears that a delay in voting on the wording of the referendum this week will see the referendum on the Eighth Amendment pushed to June. Speaking ahead of the rally, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “Millions of our young people have not had the opportunity to vote on this issue, and arguably it affects our future generations more than any other. UK Department of Health […]
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[…]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 Women’s Strategy, particularly for a key cohort of female-identifying students between 18 and 24, who will have […]
[…]understanding one. Often this means challenging the status quo or the way we always saw ‘the world’, and that can be unsettling, but it’s absolutely necessary. ‘I am honoured to receive this award with USI and thank those shortlisted for the work they do for students.’ Shortlisted for this award were, ‘Out in UL’, ‘GiG Soc (NUI Galway)’, ‘DCU LGBTA Society’. The GALAS were set up by GCN and the National LGBT Federation (NXF) to honour LGBT+ people and organisations for their contributions to Irish society. The awards are also to honour politicians, employers and others who are committed to […]
[…]campuses and that all students are able to be safe in this country. USI is proud to represent the international students in our colleges and universities and we believe their inclusion in the higher education system in Ireland is vital and beneficial for all […]
[…]Union and the Global Student Forum against war and expansionism, and in condemning the renewed Russian aggression towards Ukraine. As Russian forces continue a major attack on Ukraine, USI offers solidarity to students in Ukraine and to any Ukrainian students in Ireland – we offer our complete support and will strive to amplify their voices and needs at this time. As a matter of priority, USI is liaising with the Higher Education Authority and Students’ Unions across Ireland to establish the number of students from Irish institutions in Ukraine or Russia to help ensure their safety. The international student movement […]
[…]thousands of new units of student accommodation being built across Dublin, many of them are run by private companies like Shanowen”, Kerrigan said. ”There is no point in trying to catch up with the lack of accommodation being built if students are forced to starve because they can’t afford rent just to get a degree. The market will not regulate itself, although there is new student accommodation opening across the country, there is not enough to meet the rising number of Irish and International students. Without legislation, this situation will only get worse.” Purpose-built student accommodation is not subject to […]
[…]the last number of years representing students from lower-socio economic backgrounds who were struggling to deal with the constrained economic climate, increasing costs of going to college and reduced student supports. This has created a perfect storm which has left many hard-pressed students and families at their wits’ end. So without hesitation, if I could change one thing about our education system, it would be that financial barriers to accessing third-level education would no longer be a concern. Families would no longer have to sit around the kitchen table deciding if they could afford to send all or some of their children […]
[…]four key demands for students: Complete overhaul of the student accommodation system and construction of affordable student accommodation. Permanently abolishing the Student Contribution Charge from budget 2025. A robust plan for a state-funded solution to the national housing crisis. Ending the Government’s complicity in the ongoing genocide in Gaza – directly intervening in the International Court of Justice case against […]
[…]speaking at the Student Summit Launch The Student Summit 2016 will take place on the 4th February this year in Dublin Castle, with 600 students, 35 start-ups, 40+ jobs for students, key speakers, 20 workshops and leading student brands. “The Student Summit is a fantastic event for young entrepreneurs, job-seeking students and young people looking to start up their own business.” Kevin Donoghue, Union of Students in Ireland president, said. “I’d strongly advise students to turn up for a day of commercial, PR and marketing education, as well as innovation and mentoring. Tickets start from €5 – well worth-it […]
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[…]mobility. SIPTU Education Sector Organiser, Karl Byrne, said: “The Times Higher Education world university rankings is regarded as the most influential list of top performing third level institutions in the world. It is deeply disappointing and reputationally damaging that no Irish university has made it into the top 200 in this year’s list. Such a failure means that Irish universities will face greater problems attempting to attract research investment and overseas students. These issues will damage the ability of the sector to perform and in the long run undermine our society and economy. Urgent action must be taken to stop […]
[…]than €3,000. Your best bet here is to contact someone within your college’s fees or finance department. A simple Google search will sort you out. How can I change course? It may well transpire that your course wasn’t what you thought it was, or that the grass on the other side is much greener. Arrangements differ from institution to institution, but your best bet to get the wheels in motion is to discuss the issue with a member of academic staff responsible for your course (maybe a course coordinator or head of department) and someone with similar responsibility […]
[…]conducted that heavily suggest students are already deterred by the registration fee, already at breaking point, and already steeped in debt and anxieties because of the cost of education. USI surveyed over 870 students across Ireland and found that 87% of students fear having to drop out of college because of the cost of education. 58.1% of students miss meals and more than a third (38.7%) of students said they go hungry to fund or stay in college. “Irish third level fees are the second highest in Europe, after the UK.” Hoey said. “Germany, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland all […]
[…]rights to the product idea they have. All applicants must follow the format of the submission rules. All third level applicants must be a member of a USI college. The Student Summit has hand-picked some of the most influential speakers to help inspire the generation who will shape the world of tomorrow. This year the Student Summit has taken a tailored approach to focus on purely the entrepreneurial capacity, showcasing personal stories, interesting tips and facts to equip students with all the right ingredients they need to start something special. Many speakers will be giving workshops with the aim of […]
[…]Network Against Racism’s #TogetherAgainstRacism social media campaign today (Thursday) ahead of International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21. USI is a proud member of INAR and we are pleased to show our opposition to racism, xenophobia, far-right ideologies and we stand in solidarity with those affected and further commit to fighting racial discrimination in all its forms. The aim of #TogetherAgainstRacism is to show that racism has no place in Ireland and share a positive message of inclusion, diversity, equality and togetherness. This campaign has been running since 2018 and now more than ever we need to stand against racism and show that […]
[…]gave it without question and with care and passionate support. He served in latter years as a Trustee, but even when his long term as trustee was over, when as an organisation we had cause to call on his advice, he set aside probably too much of his valuable time to give us the benefits of his experience. USI has much to thank Gordon Colleary for – probably much more than we agreed we would ever say publicly. It’s not hyperbole to say that USI would not exist today without his past guidance, and we know we owe him a […]
[…]rents in Europe. We saw this year how reliant many higher education institutions have become on international students to fill gaps in funding. Students who come to this country to get an education should not be used as cash cows for colleges and universities to make ends meet. “Investing in higher education is not just crucial for students, but it is also a great opportunity at this time. Higher education can act as an instigator for economic development and growth as we emerge from this crisis as for every €1 invested, another €4 is pumped back into the economy.” Having […]
[…]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 every aspect of German society. All levels of education and conditioning of the youth […]
[…]circumstances should never prevent a worthy student from accessing a high-quality education in a world-class institution. If we, as a people, are committed to this ideal then now is the time to demonstrate it. On behalf of the Union of Students in Ireland and the 354,000 students we represent on both sides of the border, we ask that you take the necessary action to help Erica and the thousands like her who deserve support. Le meas, Annie Hoey President The Union of Students in Ireland Jack Leahy Deputy President The Union of Students in […]
[…](Wednesday) to support a Dáil motion calling for Ireland to support South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice against the genocide in Gaza. USI has co-organised the protest at 5.30pm today, along with the Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign, and other civil groups, to back the motion being put forward by the Social Democrats today. Thousands are expected to turn out for the demonstration, which will be addressed by TDs and speakers from the organising groups, as well as by Irish actor Liam Cunningham who will recite a poem by renowned Palestinian poet, Refaat Alareer, who was killed in […]
[…]quality services even in times where much needed funding and resources are unavailable. We truly believe everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention, please see the USI’s recommendations to the new framework. USI’s Recommendations 1. Joined up thinking & collaborative approach A collaborative approach with joined up thinking on a local and national level is a desired approach from USI. We believe messages and campaigns on suicide prevention must be far reaching and is completed in a collaborative way. We believe it is vitally important that mental health and suicide prevention groups and organisations work in partnership together. […]
[…]at the ballot box.” The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has today expressed its anger and frustration as Budget 2019 again fails to deliver on the need for significant investment in third-level education and to alleviate the huge financial pressures students face across the country. The announced expenditure by Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe is a missed opportunity to begin to rectify the failure of successive Governments after years of cuts and neglect across Higher and Further Education. Additionally, measures to address the housing and homelessness crisis have entirely failed to include the lack of accommodation for students that […]
[…]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 will aim to use the high profile platform that GAA sports provides to show solidarity and support for LGBT+ players and fans. Share the gLove provides an open goal for people to do show their support for the LGBT+ community as well as the mental health charity, Aware NI. “The Out in Sport research carried out by NUS, examining LGBT students’ […]
[…]Union of Students in Ireland.” Annie Hoey, President of USI, said. “I want to hit the ground running and expect to have a very busy year ahead, focusing on repealing the eight; LGBT rights; reducing the registration fee of €3,000; fighting any proposals for loan schemes; finding solutions to the student accommodation crisis; and increasing student support.” Hoey studied Women’s Studies in UCC and was the USI Deputy President for the 2015/2016 term and the USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship for the 2014/2015 and the 2015/2016 terms. Annie Hoey spoke about the campaigns she worked on and how […]
[…]to achieve a Gaisce Award at any level too. Through a partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, Gaisce Awards are also recognised internationally. Since its inception in 1985, over 370,000 young people have participated in the Gaisce programme. Today, more than 25,000 young people register for the Gaisce challenge each year, pursuing the award through more than 850 organisations (Gaisce Award Partners) located right across the country. In any one year, Gaisce supports these organisations and the more than 1,200 President Award Leaders (PALs) working and volunteering in them to mentor young people through their Gaisce journey. Gaisce […]
[…]they do not live in university accommodation. Congress also recognises: The exorbitant fees that international students pay to attend university in the UK and Ireland, often 4 times higher than what home students pay. Congress also recognises: Universities also play a role in monitoring international students under the hostile environment policy and the Prevent Duty. Congress believes: Education and healthcare should be free for all students. Congress also believes: In the free movement of all students and staff, including those outside of the EU. Therefore, Congress mandates: That USI work with NUS and NUS-USI to end the hostile environment and […]
[…]working. Third level education is unaffordable and our universities are slipping down on the QS World University Rankings. The loan scheme option put forward in the Cassells report is unsustainable. It will increase emigration, saddle young people with a mortgage-modelled debt and widen the gap between the rich and the poor. “America’s student loan debt ($1tn+) is greater in value than the combined economies of Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia. In other words, American students owe the combined value of all transactions in those countries in a year. Home-ownership in under-40s in New Zealand has drastically fallen since the introduction of […]
[…]political, social, cultural and other interests of all the students in Ireland on a national and international level.” Today our principles are the same as they were almost 55 years ago, Ireland has changed as has its students but our core values remain the same. We work to improve student life across the board and to ensure student voices are heard. The student movement embraces equality for all, encourages student voter registration and places mental health support at the forefront of our policies. Our Social Lobby Policy lays out the social policy priorities of USI for the consideration and discussion […]
[…]Donoghue said. “The accommodation crisis will deter students, especially those from rural areas, from going to college, and long commutes will negatively affect the quality of their college experience. “We should follow international examples and seek innovative solutions to accommodation shortages. The Irish economy has shown strong signs of recovery over the past few years with the rate of unemployment falling at its lowest level in over 5 years. GDP also grew by almost 5% in 2014 and will grow by 4.9% this year. Ireland remains the fastest growing economy in Europe. It needs to keep accommodation, and student accommodation, […]
[…]with student debt had indicated that student loans were the contributing factor in rejecting finance – with 34% of those likely to be rejected being mortgages. The demonstration is supported by members of the Coalition for Publicly Funded Higher Education including the Irish Second Level Students’ Union, SIPTU, IMPACT, TUI, IFUT and the National Youth Council of Ireland. USI is campaigning for the Government to rule out any possible introduction of an income contingent loan scheme in Budget 2018, and to reduce the Student Contribution Charge by a minimum of €250 and invest €1.26bn into higher education over the next […]
Today sees the launch at University College Dublin Students’ Union, Waterford Institute of Technology Students Union, University College, Cork Students’ Union, St Angela’s College Sligo Students’ Union and Queen’s University Belfast Students’ Union of Ireland’s first LGBT ally campaign. [tabgroup] [/tabgroup] Who should I contact about the campaign? The USI Equality and Citizenship Officer for 2012-2013 is Laura Harmon. Laura can be contacted at laura.harmon@usi.ie for any questions on the […]
[…]with student debt had indicated that student loans were the contributing factor in rejecting finance – with 34% of those likely to be rejected being mortgages. USI is campaigning for the Government to rule out any possible introduction of an income contingent loan scheme in Budget 2018, and to reduce the Student Contribution Charge by a minimum of €250. The union is also calling for an increase to student supports by reversing the cuts made to the student grant in 2011 and 2012 to assist students cover the drastic increases in the cost of going to college. Schedule includes leaving […]
[…]out in today’s Report. The USI will be making a Pre-Budget submission to the Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform before the end of the week, which will set out proposals for additional public investment in the Higher Education system. USI President Joe O’Connor said: “The USI welcome the Minister’s announcement of the establishment of a review group on the future funding of Higher Education in Ireland. It is a group that USI intend to fully engage with, as it is crucially important that an open and frank discussion about future funding options for Higher Education in Ireland […]
[…]said “Fast-melting glaciers have increased the sea levels, which has consumed towns and crushed shorelines. The government’s commitment to addressing climate change is far slower than the rapid pace the climate is changing. The planet cannot wait five years for us to make these changes and commit to meeting the targets set out by the EU. While the agri-food sector in Ireland contributes a value of €24 billion to the national economy, agriculture is the biggest contributor to Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, currently accounting for more than 30pc of the total.” Ireland has the highest proportion of emissions of any […]
[…]#FeministsAreEverywhere. USI welcomes the adoption of a motion by NWCI membership to support structures in third level institutions to end sexual harassment and violence, under the ESHTE framework. The Vice President for the Southern Region attended the International Road Safety Conference on Alcohol – Tackling the Crisis on our Roads. The USI President and USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship participated in the 35th VHI women’s mini marathon in aid of the repeal coalition along with an incredible 140 other women. Last week, the Vice President for Welfare alongside Mental Health First Aid Ireland hosted the first of 4 […]
[…]Voter Registration Day has been proven[1] to be successful in many other jurisdictions around the world and could have a significant impact on the numbers turning out to vote in Ireland. Ian Power, Director of SpunOut.ie said: “Voter Registration Days have had success in other countries where thousands of additional voters have been registered. A day with a single call-to-action for potential voters would bring government and civil society partners together to ensure that those who have never voted before are engaged and empowered to use their vote.” Join in the conversation on Twitter using #YouthVote14. [1] e.g. A recent voter registration day […]
[…]health workshops by Dr. Sex (Doctor of Sexual Health Promotion, Siobhan Higgins) and a show by the world’s only sexual health magician. Sexual Health Roadshow: 10th Feb – NCI 11th Feb – IT Carlow 12th Feb – GMIT 13th Feb – DKIT Denise McCarthy, USI Deputy President/Vice President for Welfare: “The focus of this campaign is to promote positive attitudes towards sex and raise awareness to all aspects of sexual health. Talking about sex related issues is still a taboo subject in Ireland and we want to break through these barriers and encourage people to practice safer sex and to […]
[…]technological university bill, independent Students’ Unions and working to further the cause of international students will be key for DITSU and USI. I was very happy to see an excellent DITSU team elected and I look forward to seeing what these officers will bring to USI next year”. Speaking at the count today, referendum campaign lead and Vice President for Welfare, Cian Power, said, “Being the Vice President for the Dublin Region and leading this referendum showed the mettle of USI. Officers from NUIGSU, QUBSU, IT Tralee SU, GMITSU, AITSU, TCDSU, DCUSU, DKITSU, IADTSU, IT Carlow SU, WITSU, LITSU, and […]
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[…]will launch the ‘Say Something’ card in R Block, IT Tralee at 1pm on Tuesday the 2nd February. The ‘Say Something’ card was developed by USI from research funded by Cosc and the Department of Justice and Equality. The research examined students’ experiences of sexual violence and harassment while in college and found that 16% of students experienced an unwanted sexual experience. The survey was completed by 2,590 Irish students and 162 International Students. 11 per cent of the Women who responded noted that they had been subject to unwanted sexual contact. In addition to that, 5 per cent of […]
[…]to support USIs campaign for publicly funded education. This week, USI partnered with Amnesty International Youth and the Irish Congress of Trad Unions in a sit out of solidarity with Ibrahim Halawa, whose trial, as the sit out continued outside the Egyptian Embassy Dublin, was delayed for the 24th time. We will continue actions on this and will update members as we progress The Vice President for Academic Affairs met with the NStEP project partners to plan for the organisation of future NStEP trainings, including the selection of trainers The Vice President for Welfare attended his last HSE Sexual Health […]
[…]away, they could be affected by matters such as emigrant support or consular protection if they run into difficulties. This is not a sentimental matter- it’s a matter of citizens of a nation being allowed a say in their futures.” USI believes that by giving Irish citizens abroad a vote it will be a step forward for Irish citizens in terms of international equality, and appropriate Irish representation both at home and abroad. USI have joined VotingRights.ie, to advance the cause of Irish citizens’ voting rights abroad through uniting the global leadership of the movement; informing decision-makers, media and citizens on issues […]
[…]been affected, it is difficult to show comprehensively how the recession has impacted students’ finances along with their family finances. Congress mandates Officer Board: To commission/compile an impact assessment report on how the recession has affect student finances, and also how it has affected families supporting students. Congress recommends: That this report should take into consideration: public sector/private sector representation in supporting families and the recessionary impact on them, personal and national debt analysis and how over indebtedness affects people/families, geographic analysis of recessionary impact to aid regional COs, drop in student employment, and if possible the significant drop in […]
[…]arrested on 17 August 2013, and has been imprisoned in Egypt since without trial. Amnesty International has conducted a thorough review of the prosecution evidence and found no credible evidence against him. According to Amnesty, Ibrahim is being “detained solely for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly”. During #USI17 Congress in March 2017, student representatives across Ireland voted unanimously to support a campaign for Ibrahim’s immediate release. STATEMENT BY USI CONGRESS 2017 Congress notes with deep concern the severe deterioration of the health conditions in recent weeks of Ibrahim Halawa, the Irish citizen […]
[…]to demand that Government publicly fund Higher Education.” In a September 2018 High Court ruling, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys stated that; “In the modern world, it is difficult and in some cases impossible to earn one’s livelihood without access to higher education and vocational training.” This was subsequently challenged by Minister for Education, Joe McHugh TD. The Union of Students in Ireland, alongside the European Students’ Union (ESU), are supporting the Global Campaign for Education (GCE).The GCE’s Global Action Week for Education in 2019 is taking place between the 24th of April and the 1st of May, focusing […]
[…]on workers rights and the Irish language. Topics like sexual health from the HSE, alcohol, drugs and substances from Drugs.ie, accommodation rights from Threshold and student finances from Mabs were covered for Welfare Officers. To add, Jigsaw ran a session mental health followed by a session on boundaries by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre. Digital native Malachy Callan from Broadlake delivered a module on digital marketing and branding with Eric Fitzgerald handing over tips on booking acts and marketing events. The Director of Education at the European Institute of Communications, Eugene Grey, offered training on getting media for campaigns and […]
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[…]per cent, a new survey from Durex reveals. In time for National Condom Week, (October 15-21), the world’s leading condom maker Durex has revealed just 55 per cent of Irish 18-year-olds will leave secondary school withany formal sexual health education, while another 15 per cent cannot remember receiving theirs. What’s more, more than 80 per cent of Irish men and women risk STIs and unplanned pregnancy by not always using a condom with a new partner or someone who is not their main partner. The global survey found that just 12per centwill always use a male condom with someone who […]
[…]to bringing a motion to Louth County Council, which will be sent to Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn. The provisional wording of the motion read as follows: “This Council calls on the Minister for Education and Skills to prevent any increase to the significant cost of third level education that is already pricing many families out of education. This Council calls on the Minister to protect maintenance grant supports for vulnerable families, which have already been cut by 12% since 2010.” Times and locations for this week’s Public Meetings on the Cost of College: Sligo: Tuesday, October 23, The Glasshouse Hotel, […]
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[…]students can chose to apply for the Access Scheme SAF finance support or for the general SAF finance support (this finance support is usually larger). Congress further notes: The lack of structure, continuity and shared information amongst colleges and institutes nationally in relation to their access schemes, and particularly their distributions and allocating of access SAF funds. Congress further notes: The lack of dialogue within USI in relation to the Higher Education Access Route and information available to elected Students’ Union representatives in relation to the Higher Education Access Route and access schemes. Congress mandates: That the USI Vice […]
[…]Of these women, 1,404 were between the ages of 18-24 and 2,566 of these were under the age of 30. Crucially, these figures are probably an underestimation of the true numbers as many Irish women give no Irish address for reasons of […]
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[…]it doors. So, let this be a word of caution to Government and to Higher Education Institutions: international students are not a sport. They are not for exploitation. The value of internationalising our education lies in diversity, in cultural exchange and the sharing of ideas and perspectives. Everything Brexit does not represent. Brexit is not an opportunity to be an opportunist. It is imperative that we utilise it as an opportunity to lay out a progressive version of ourselves, in the face of an uncertain future, one that we hope will not be defined by the divisions of the Brexit […]
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[…]report finds that 96% of current students find their time on placement highly stressful indicating finance as the main driver for stress. 71% of current placement students hold part-time jobs during placement in order to afford rent, materials for teaching, travel and food, citing the €1,500 Gaeltacht fee as the biggest motivation for working part-time while on placement. 89% of current students and 79% of graduates say that the compulsory Gaeltacht fee is too high. Speaking at the launch, USI President Michael Kerrigan, said, “Work placement is invaluable preparation for student teachers pursuing their vocation as educators. Students are following […]
[…]can vary, depending on how and where it is offered. For example, distance education can be structured quite differently to a full-time course on campus. In general, however, a higher certificate course requires two years of full-time study; an ordinary bachelor degree three years; and an honours bachelor degree three or more years. Part-time Study Part-time study in higher education is the only realistic option for many people. This route generally takes longer than studying full-time but the benefits are the same at the end of the process. Structure of Courses Higher education courses can vary greatly in their day-to-day […]
[…]order to find ‘security’ in a job. When they neglect their highest values they become frustrated, unfulfilled and lacking purpose. Innovation comes down to pursuing those things that inspire you and responding to the challenges you meet from critics and the marketplace.” The Student Summit will also be held by the Union of Students in Ireland on the 4th February in Dublin Castle with 600 students to launch 40+ start up jobs for students with the most cutting edge start ups in Ireland today; 20+ development workshops for young entrepreneurs; along with the student summit start up pitch which is […]
[…]their friends and families, and how Ireland has set a positive example to other countries on an international stage, we still need to push to achieve true equality by ending the blood ban, extending gender recognition to those under 18, and introducing hate crime legislation.” The USI said many more supports need to be urgently put in place for students and young people in schools and colleges across the country who are still experiencing bullying, harassment and violence for being who they are. USI emphasised that recent reports indicated that young Irish LGBT people report twice the level of self-harm, […]
[…]30th. USI was proud to partner with the Teaching and Learning Forum for this amazing and groundbreaking event. Speaking after the awards, USI President Laura Harmon said: “It’s a great honour to recognise the people who make learning possible and without whom students experience of education could be just good. The recipients of these awards make education an inspiration for many students.” A full list of the recipients of the awards is given below, alongside some photos from the event. Institution Teaching Heroes Department Athlone Institute of Technology Jean Russell Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology Pharmacology Clinical Laboratory Techniques Athlone Institute […]
[…]partnership approach adopted for this project has successfully developed a survey instrument of high quality that will lend valuable insight into the experience of students in Irish higher education over coming years. More importantly, it will contribute to an increasing evidence base to inform national dialogue and policy around higher education.” ISSE is based on best practice internationally as developed by the Australasian Survey of Student Engagement (AUSSE) since 2007 and the US National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) since 2000. The national student survey project is co-sponsored by the HEA, Institutes of Technology Ireland (IOTI), the Irish Universities […]
[…]is now 40% less than it was a decade ago. Every year, Ireland is losing ground against international competitors and the crisis in funding is compromising the quality of the higher education system and the student experience. The representative bodies have begun a series of meetings with education spokespersons of all the major parties followed by social and online advertising to encourage staff, students and parents to ask their candidate to prioritise funding higher education in this general election. In addition, the Royal Irish Academy along with IUA, THEA and USI will host a debate on the future of Irish […]
[…]Séagh Kehoe, who is studying a PhD in Contemporary Chinese Studies at the School of Politics and International Relations in the University of Nottingham said: ”It is absolutely vital that anyone who is eligible to vote in the referendum on May 25th does so. This is a huge opportunity, a once-in-a-generation chance for everyone to have a say in shaping the future of Ireland and the kind of society we want to be a part of. Every single vote counts. For many of us currently scattered around the globe, Ireland will always be home and we want to return at […]
[…]of €1.3mn for Killybegs (run by LYIT); €2mn at Castlebar and €700,000 at Letterfrack (run by GMIT); and €1mn at the National Maritime College (run by CIT). These deficits make a major contribution to the overall deficit position of these institutes. USI ask that the increase in funding be allocated to protect these campuses. Costing: €17m per €250 reduction per annum Responsibility: Department of […]
[…]fee has resulted in Ireland having one of the most expensive third level systems in the world. The registration charge has increased by 275 per cent since 2008. What have we got to show for it? Falling university rankings, facilities which are not fit for purpose. Something has to change. A student loan scheme will mean the student contribution fee will increase to a minimum of €5,000. I say minimum of €5,000 because in every country that has implemented loan schemes, it always followed with a further rise in fees. In 1998, the UK implemented loan schemes at £1,000 per year, […]
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[…]on the life of our nation and our State, and that indeed; Ireland is the only country in the world which has a lower population now than in 1845. Congress further recognises: That over the past twenty years, the various holders of the office of President of Ireland have reached out to the Irish abroad, and that Article 2 of the Constitution states how “the Irish nation cherishes its special affinity with people of Irish ancestry living abroad who share its cultural identity and heritage”. Despite this, Ireland is one of the very few countries in the world which still […]
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[…]Student Financial Support NUI Galway Students’ Union Congress notes The huge financial struggle International students face when attending third level institutions across the Island of Ireland with the increase in International Student fees year on year. Congress further notes The lack of financial supports available for students who are classified as International Students, with many leaving third level education with huge student loans or debt. Congress therefore mandates The VP Welfare and the VP Academic Affairs to research what financial supports are available for International Students across HEIs and FEs on the Island of Ireland. Congress further mandates The VP […]
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[…]Nurses and Midwives Organisation), 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 […]
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[…]discusses the work of the DUWO (a Dutch student-housing corporation set up after the Second World War to assist with a huge lack of student accommodation in the Netherlands) and the establishment of an Irish Student Housing Trust. This would act as a long-term comprehensive solution to the accommodation problem, which is adaptable, and student focused. It must be noted that this ambitious request will not occur overnight, but should be considered by the Government as an extensive long-term goal by 2027 but must begin immediately. The recommendations can be found on the following pages and outline the key tasks […]
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[…]students on Irish campuses and prepare a document outlining best practices (nationally and/or internationally) of encouraging international student engagement in the Irish Student Movement and in the student experience in general. The documents recommendations should be submitted for discussion and agreement from MOs within the first two national councils in the academic year 14 NA 1 LIVING WAGE CAMPAIGN Congress notes: That the Living Wage is the minimum hourly rate at which one can live on without fear of poverty. Eurostat statistics show that 20.7% of the workforce receive low pay. Congress also notes that: There is a strong […]
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[…]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 rights. The provision of student services for the benefit of the membership on the principle that control of student service should lie with the membership. To represent the interests of the students if Ireland at international level. Background of the […]
The Union of Students in Ireland is now recruiting two staff to join its Dublin-based operation. Applying Candidates should apply by forwarding a CV and a letter stating the title of the role applied for and outlining your suitability for the role (with adherence to the tasks and criteria) to arrive by 1pm on Friday 2nd June 2017, to: The Recruitment Officer The Union of Students in Ireland Portview House Thorncastle Street Ringsend Dublin 4 Or by email to info@usi.ie. The subject line should state your name and the reference code for the job. The Roles are: Public Relations Executive […]
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