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Student Achievement Awards move online

[…]Gibson Hotel, had previously been moved to May 27 due to the public health measures being taken to stop the spread of COVID-19. As a result of the on-going nature of these measures, the USI has decided to move the celebrations online. The Student Achievement Awards, now in its seventh year, is the annual opportunity for the student movement in Ireland to recognise the contribution of students to improving the experience of their fellow students, and to wider society. Nominations are now closed and the USI will contact the shortlisted nominees in the next week. USI Vice-President for Academic Affairs, […]

SUSI to open its online Student Grant Application System for 2014/2015 on 8 May, 2014.

[…]13 June and for new applications is 1 August, 2014. SUSI encourages students to visit its website www.susi.ie to review the eligibility criteria for student grant funding. There is also information available on the SUSI website to assist students with making their […]
Read more » SUSI to open its online Student Grant Application System for 2014/2015 on 8 May, 2014.

Online protest calls for Government action on key student issues, including an end to highest fees in the EU

[…]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 lobbied for the Student Contribution Charge to be reduced in Budget 2021, […]
Read more » Online protest calls for Government action on key student issues, including an end to highest fees in the EU

USI Launch Online SHAG week as Report shows a 22% increase in Syphilis with 24 men diagnosed per woman

[…]in Ireland has launched its online SHAG (Sexual Health Awareness Guide) week, urging young people to get into the habit of getting tested regularly, after a HSE report showed an increase of 22.1% in Syphilis from 2014 to 2015. Early infectious syphilis diagnoses were 2,290% higher in men than in women with 24 men diagnosed per woman. There was also an increase in Chlamydia with 70 more reported cases – there were 6,815 reported diagnoses in 2015, up from 6,693 in 2014. There were also 41 more reported cases of genital herpes in 2015 – a 3.3% increase from 2014. […]
Read more » USI Launch Online SHAG week as Report shows a 22% increase in Syphilis with 24 men diagnosed per woman

Read Online: Student Finance Guide

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 […]

Read Online: Mature Students Convention 2012 Programme

[…]the needs of mature students. The purpose of the convention is two fold. First, it is intended to provide mature students with vital information and skills which will help them to lead a fulfilling and successful time in college. Second, the convention will give mature students the opportunity to network with others from all over the country. The convention will cost €10 per attendee. This will cover the cost of convention materials and lunch. Students can pay on the day. Please pre-register here: http://usimaturestudentsconvention.eventbrite.ie/   [issuu width=420 height=297 embedBackground=%23000000 backgroundColor=%23222222 documentId=121012104753-a55afd452c7047eea711c5decf2acc0f name=mature_students_convention_programme username=theusi tag=2012 unit=px […]
Read more » Read Online: Mature Students Convention 2012 Programme

USI issues alert to young people – new drugs are risky business

[…]is no specific evidence this drug is restricted to one university in one area, we want to reach out to all young people and students on this topic. You can never be sure 100% of the contents or origin of an unknown drug, it may be a risk to your health and USI want young people to think before they take any drug; it might not be what you think it is. We’re concerned that there is a lack of education on drugs in Ireland and perhaps we need to speak openly about the issue. With end of exam parties […]
Read more » USI issues alert to young people – new drugs are risky business

USI welcomes 20 years of the Good Friday Agreement

[…]in 1998. A quarter of a century before, student leaders from across Ireland and the UK came together to lay the foundations of student co-operation across these islands in what became known as the Bilateral Agreement. Since then, NUS-USI has led the way in initiatives to unify and students of all political opinions and none in Northern Ireland for peace and a future built on mutual respect – their desire for that future and their determination to help form it, are undiminished. On this historic occasion, recognising that the work of building peace is never over, we wish our colleagues […]
Read more » USI welcomes 20 years of the Good Friday Agreement

New phase of Student Drugs campaign focuses on synthetic cannabinoids and mephedrone

[…]Substance misuse. The harm reduction messages in this campaign are paramount: ultimately to reduce harm and to ensure that people who choose to take NPS are aware of the importance of testing in small doses, taking NPS in safe controlled environments, and taking time out between sessions. These posters will be sent to colleges across Ireland and we hope to continue and advocate this conversation with our members.” Dr. Eamon Keenan, HSE National Clinical Lead for Addiction services added: ‘We are very pleased to be working in conjunction with the Union of Students of Ireland to deliver this important harm […]
Read more » New phase of Student Drugs campaign focuses on synthetic cannabinoids and mephedrone

Irish psychoactive drugs users in 15-24 year age group are highest in Europe

[…]we have a duty to reduce harm and protect young peoples’ health.  The key messages that we need to get to people is to Stay Safe and to be aware of the strength of the drugs they are taking. There is information, support and help available through www.drugs.ie or the Drugs Helpline.” The campaign was launched by Minister Catherine Byrne in the Institute of Technology Tallaght and is the first step of an ongoing campaign to provide harm reduction information for students. HSE Drug/Alcohol helpline Freephone: 1800 459 459 9.30am – 5.30pm Monday – Friday Email support: helpline@hse.ie *New Psychoactive […]
Read more » Irish psychoactive drugs users in 15-24 year age group are highest in Europe

Students call time on binge drinking and decide to set a good example

[…]on their contemporaries and increasingly recognise binge drinking as a major contributing factor to poor mental health. It’s very encouraging to see the USI are taking the lead in terms of the strong link between binge drinking and poor mental health amongst their peers and it’s a significant sign of its long-term commitment to this issue that they are also introducing training and policies to colleges and universities that will help protect students from alcohol harm.” ENDS Notes •             Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to alcohol-related harms and risks, as their bodies and brains are still developing. Far […]
Read more » Students call time on binge drinking and decide to set a good example

Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance

[…]each motion covers an important topic, it has created a disparate and sometimes sectoral approach to quality assurance that prohibits the development of a coherent campaign that could affect real change. Congress also recognises: That as USI represents students across all sectors of further and higher education, it must establish a common set of principles that will underpin and inform the organisation’s approach to quality assurance Congress further mandates: That USI adopts the following guidelines as its policy on quality assurance to be implemented by the education officer: Aims and principles: ‘Quality assurance’ includes processes such as evaluation, accreditation and […]

The Union of Students in Ireland is Urging Students to Stay away from the 2CB Drug

[…]in Cork, the HSE Addiction services are issuing a warning about possible contaminated ‘party pills’ and advise people to not consume any unknown substances that they are offered at this time.”   Further Survey Results: 82% of students have tried illegal drugs. While it is common for some students to try illegal drugs at least once in their lifetime, recurring drug use is lower for illegal drugs compared to alcohol. When taken over the past 12 months, 49% of all respondents have consumed normal strength cannabis compared to 44% who have used high potency cannabis. Respondents reported that the common […]
Read more » The Union of Students in Ireland is Urging Students to Stay away from the 2CB Drug

USI Elections 2021

[…]2021 Website. Elections will take place on 7 April 2021 during the USI Congress, which will be online.  Online voting will take place for these elections. All information for prospective candidates is available on the site, including role descriptions, terms of office and nomination process. Nominations close on 24 February […]

USI Remembers Dave Roche

[…]online book of condolences for those who cannot attend services for Dave in Cork, please feel free to add your thoughts. Sign the online book of condolences by clicking […]

VideoDoc To Provide USI Students With Free doctor Care

[…]Vhi Healthcare, Beaumont Hospital, Wrkit and Clanwilliam Healthcare in Ireland. Commitment to Quality and Security VideoDoc takes its role as a best in practice provider of online healthcare seriously, with patient care being supported by proprietary clinical pathways which aid doctors in delivering a comprehensive service.  All VideoDoc doctors are Irish Medical Council registered with at least two years on the Specialist Register and have been fully trained to provide remote health services.  VideoDoc already meets the requirements of the GDPR regulations. Full disclosure:  Article edited to reflect change in […]
Read more » VideoDoc To Provide USI Students With Free doctor Care

‘Supporting Wellbeing in Practice’ webinar and report

[…]the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education today held an online webinar on ‘Supporting Wellbeing in Practice’ across the sector. This was very exciting research project, beginning in January 2021, that examined the practice of embedding wellbeing in the curriculum in higher education in Ireland. The project set out to capture how wellbeing is currently being embedded in the curricula of higher education institutions nationally and internationally and identify features of good practice. The research has culminated in a report completed by Dr Jessica Surdey and Dr Deirdre Byrne which discusses the key insights […]
Read more » ‘Supporting Wellbeing in Practice’ webinar and report

Redeveloping the website

[…]and managing the site somewhat complex – but rewarding when viewership increases due to changes to the site. We’re already seeing some small evidence of that today. The new design aims to put the stories we think will interest the rest of the world in our work – we have an external readership focus for 80% 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. […]

ESU – The European Students’ Union

[…]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 similarly […]

Union of Students in Ireland is urging Students to Remain Vigilant against unknown substances at Electric Picnic

[…]and prescribed drugs can all interact dangerously with each other.” USI is advising students to rehydrate with water or isotonic drinks regularly, but not to drink more than one pint per hour. “If you, or anyone you are with, at Electric Picnic has a bad reaction to any drink or substance, bring them to the emergency services on-site as soon as possible.” Hoey […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland is urging Students to Remain Vigilant against unknown substances at Electric Picnic

#knowingthesigns of drug overdose

[…]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 […]

Cookie Policy

[…]is used and how to control the cookie preferences. For further information on how we use, store and keep your personal data secure, see our Privacy Policy. You can at any time change or withdraw your consent from the Cookie Declaration on our website. Learn more about who we are, how you can contact us and how we process personal data in our Privacy Policy. Your consent applies to the following domains: usi.ie What are cookies ? Cookies are small text files that are used to store small pieces of information. The cookies are stored on your device when the […]

Cookie Policy

[…]is used and how to control the cookie preferences. For further information on how we use, store and keep your personal data secure, see our Privacy Policy. You can at any time change or withdraw your consent from the Cookie Declaration on our website. Learn more about who we are, how you can contact us and how we process personal data in our Privacy Policy. Your consent applies to the following domains: usi.ie What are cookies ? Cookies are small text files that are used to store small pieces of information. The cookies are stored on your device when the […]

USI President welcomes return of DCU after 13 year absence

[…]affairs, the HEA (Higher Education Authority), the QQI & SUSI grants organisation and access to quality training. In joining, DCUSU will become USI’s 5th largest member. A lot of students have put their faith in USI – and we will now make it our job to prove our value to the many who voted not to join us. This positive result for USI follows the reaffiliation this year of Cork Institute of Technology, and an affirmative ballot at Galway Mayo Institute of Technology. Joe O’Connor, President of USI, said: “This evening’s result reflects the recognition by DCU students of the […]
Read more » USI President welcomes return of DCU after 13 year absence

USI partners with The Irish Times to launch Campus Times

[…]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 the issues that affect them.” -ENDS- For more information, contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or email at […]
Read more » USI partners with The Irish Times to launch Campus Times

Alcohol advice for students during COVID-19

[…]459 459 from Monday to Friday 9.30am and 5.30pm, or email helpline@hse.ie any time.  Get tips and tools to help you manage your use such as an alcohol diary and change plan worksheet: http://www.drugs.ie/alcohol_info/tips_tools/ Support groups such as AA and SMART Recovery are now available online for people who are trying to remain alcohol free. Learn more here.  This blog has been developed in partnership with www.askaboutalcohol.ie   Get up to date factual information about Coronavirus at […]

USI launch national survey on students’ experiences of violence

[…]The survey includes contact details for relevant support organisations so that students know where to go if they need support.” Gary Heylin, Director of Cosc said: “By increasing our understanding of the extent and nature of violence experienced by thir level students we can improve our actions to counter such violence and support those who have experienced it.” -ENDS- For more information contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or […]
Read more » USI launch national survey on students’ experiences of violence

USI Mental Health Awareness Week – What Makes You Smile?

[…]such as ReachOut.com and PleaseTalk.org work because they are delivered online – and online is where young people go for mental health information and support.” -ENDS- For more information, contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or email at […]
Read more » USI Mental Health Awareness Week – What Makes You Smile?

Give Us Our Grad! Open letter to universities and colleges

[…]events for the classes of 2020 and 2021. We understand that you may not yet be in a position to commit to a format for this year’s graduation ceremonies, however we are writing to implore the institution to be creative and not to cancel in-person graduations and move them online. Students feel that the commitment and preparations to return to on-campus activity should include graduation ceremonies and events. There is an expectation, under best practice student engagement and partnership, to communicate and consult with the Students’ Union when creating these plans. It is understood that these might not yet return […]
Read more » Give Us Our Grad! Open letter to universities and colleges

Student Grants

The cost of attending college can be a barrier to many families. The Student Grant is available to many students, assisting them with the Student Contribution Charge and offering additional finance to cover living costs such as rent, food and college […]

Students urged to register to vote ahead of November deadline

[…]and post it to their local county or city council by November 25. There is no need to buy a stamp – just write ‘Freepost’ on the envelop and postage is free. Ahead of the registration deadline, USI is also calling for widespread reform of the voter registration system to ensure the system is easy to use and as many eligible people as possible are registered and enabled to vote in future elections. USI is calling for online registration to be available throughout the country, the right to vote being extended to those aged 16 and an investigation into the feasibility of automatic registration. […]
Read more » Students urged to register to vote ahead of November deadline

Recruiting: Communication and Research Executive

[…]Facebook, Linkedln excellent capacity in online publications excellent capacity in the use of online research tools demonstrate experience in working with the media for the promotion of policy and messages be comfortable working in a dynamic environment, issuing advice to people with limited applied professional experience and mediating the professional demands of best practice in public relations with the political demands of officers   Desirable (but not essential) competencies: Experience in lobbying and public affairs Some knowledge of the students’ union sector in Ireland Some knowledge of the higher education […]
Read more » Recruiting: Communication and Research Executive

Executive uses cancelled Congress week to virtually meet student reps

[…]and finalised, Lorna explained that she and the rest of the National Executive are using the time to talk to as many student representatives as possible. She explained: “We are engaged in a number of national spheres, but we are also making sure that we are fully in tune with what is going on in relation to campuses all over Ireland. We have rolled out several initiatives, but we want to make sure we are supporting local initiatives too. So much is being done for students by their SUs on a local level, and we want to make sure we […]
Read more » Executive uses cancelled Congress week to virtually meet student reps

USI joins forces with the Teachers’ Union of Ireland and launches ‘I Value Higher Education’ Petition

[…]of free publically funded higher education. “It is vital that students and lecturers work together to achieve the aim of free quality higher education which is accessible to all.” Kenny said “Higher education as a public good should be funded collectively by society through general taxation, corporation tax and a higher education levy. The market model of student loan schemes is not appropriate; it places an unacceptable individual debt burden on students and commodifies higher education into a product which can be sold.” The magnitude of the funding cut over a relatively short period of time is having a profound […]
Read more » USI joins forces with the Teachers’ Union of Ireland and launches ‘I Value Higher Education’ Petition

USI publishes views on higher education delivery for rest of semester one

[…]lectures, and robust measures must be put in place at both an institutional and national level to monitor and maintain standards. Connectivity issues should be addressed through dedicated on campus space or regional access points. Consideration of the needs of students on placement, particularly those in professionally accredited courses need to be considered as a priority, in close consultation with professional bodies and Students’ Unions.” Other required measures include all higher-education institutions committing to establishing student experience committees focused on monitoring and enhancing the wider student experience and – supported by Government – ensuring the provision of generous supports including peer […]
Read more » USI publishes views on higher education delivery for rest of semester one

USI Guide to the Budget 2012

The USI Guide to Budget 2013 is available to download here: USI Guide to Budget 2013 And to read online (Flash enabled devices only) here: [issuu width=420 height=272 embedBackground=%23000000 backgroundColor=%23222222 documentId=121205201047-ef31a25266c34cf09d67080da652b001 name=usibudget2013internaldocument__1_ username=theusi tag=budget unit=px […]

videoDoc & USI drive free student healthcare initiative

[…]FC, Wrkit among others. To learn more, please visit: https://www.videodoc.ie/about-us/ Commitment to Quality and Security: videoDoc takes its role as a best in practice provider of online healthcare seriously, with patient care being supported by proprietary clinical pathways which aid doctors in delivering a comprehensive service.  All videoDoc doctors are registered with the Irish Medical Council, with at least two years on the Specialist Register, and have been fully trained to provide remote health services. videoDoc meets the requirements of GDPR […]
Read more » videoDoc & USI drive free student healthcare initiative

Harmon hails student role in historic marriage equality victory

[…]made extensive use of social media platforms including our online transport initiative #VoterMotor to get students to polling stations.” “I would like to thank USI’s officer board, our hard working staff and our member student unions throughout the country and in particular our Vice President for Equality and Citizenship Annie Hoey for making our marriage equality yes campaign such a resounding success.” Information President Laura Harmon:   086 173 8455 Steve Rawson  087 235 7551 / Pat Montague 086 827 4928 Issued on behalf of USI by Rawson/Montague […]
Read more » Harmon hails student role in historic marriage equality victory

Migrant Minds Matter campaign launched

[…]is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” The choices made today, will determine the quality of society tomorrow. It is with this in mind, that Migrant Minds Matter is such an invaluable campaign.” USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship, Marie Lyons said: “Access to education has the power to change a life, the Migrant Minds Matter campaign is striving to break down the barriers to accessing higher education for migrants, asylum seekers, those who are undocumented and all those within the Direct Provision system. Since our foundation, USI has fought to remove barriers to education and make higher education accessible to all. This important […]

SUSI urges students to submit their student grant applications before the July 13th deadline

[…]Importantly, students should make sure that they have ticked the SUSI option on their CAO forms to allow us to confirm this information. We have already awarded almost 10,500 such students, which is great news. I would encourage students who are thinking of applying for a student grant to visit our website www.susi.ie where they can review information about the eligibility criteria for student grant funding. In particular, they should use our online ‘grant eligibility reckoner’ where they can quickly, and easily, self-assess whether they may/may not be entitled to a student grant. Students are also encouraged to use their own SUSI […]
Read more » SUSI urges students to submit their student grant applications before the July 13th deadline

We’re Looking for a Communications Executive

[…]maintain, audit and review public content on Social Media Sites     Engage in Dialogue and Monitor Online Activity for the organisation     Monitor Trends     An ability to demonstrate versatility, and enjoy working in a multi-disciplinary environment     All day to day administration in relation to Communication     Establish and maintain good relationships with key members of the media     Identify specific stories /works/angles that can be used to promote the work of USI     Write press releases and articles to highlight the work of USI     Handle media enquiries     Manage the media profile and diary of the President […]
Read more » We’re Looking for a Communications Executive

National Framework of Qualifications

[…]to consider progression opportunities available to you. The NFQ also makes it easier for you  to explain to others what qualifications you hold, or are studying for. This becomes very important when you are considering further learning or when you are applying for a job – at home or abroad. The NFQ, illustrated by the “fan diagram” is a system of ten levels. It is based on standards of knowledge, skill and competence and it incorporates awards made for all kinds of learning, wherever it is gained. School qualifications awarded by the State Examinations Commission, further education and training qualifications awarded by […]

The Union of Students in Ireland Advises Leaving Cert Student on Making the Right CAO choice

[…]in by contacting past students, looking up the college prospectuses, emailing course co-ordinators and going to college open days. USI is also advising students to ask their careers advisor about the courses they are thinking about doing, or asking for advice if they don’t know what course to […]
Read more » The Union of Students in Ireland Advises Leaving Cert Student on Making the Right CAO choice

What we’ve done with the website

[…]uses half the bandwidth it did before It incorporates our most active social media content Less good bits It’s not yet fully screen reader friendly (it works but it’s irritating to use) but we’re working on this as a critical priority. Bad bits It’s taking a while to make it fully accessible.  We’ll get […]

Students To Take Action Against Avoca and Aramark Over Direct Provision Ties This Christmas

[…]action will take place on Saturday the 23rd of December at 1pm on Suffolk Street outside the Avoca store to highlight to Christmas shoppers the ties the store has to direct provision centres through its owner, Aramark. The Union are calling for Avoca management to cut ties with Aramark in the New Year as part of Avoca’s New Years Resolution. Speaking ahead of the action, USI President Michael Kerrigan, said: “The situation in direct provision is cruel, and people are stuck there for up to 7 years. People can’t work, people get just over €20 a week, and people have […]
Read more » Students To Take Action Against Avoca and Aramark Over Direct Provision Ties This Christmas

Introducing DealEffect.ie

[…]will get great deals and donate 11% to USI and the Student Union of your choice. Be part of the buy to help revolution and get involved now by registering on www.dealeffect.ie Did you know that in the first half of 2013 there was €27 million spent on online daily deals in Ireland? If you were to take away 11% of that it would amount to €2,970,000. With DealEffect.ie  11% of all purchases are donated to charity or an NPO of your choice. Tell me more. DealEffect.ie has the motto “Buy, Donate, Enjoy” at its heart, it is an innovative daily deals website for […]

Cookie Policy

[…]in the pursuance of an intended and notified objective of the organisation. In each case, USI will store (a form of processing), apply data management and analysis techniques (another form of processing) and eventually delete (the final form of processing) data when it has been used for its intended business purpose, and will not hold on to data beyond the close of its intended business purpose. USI discourages the passive collection or collation about individuals accessing our services or seeking to communicate with us and will take steps to avoid this. USI occasionally receives information from persons accessing our services […]

Students Demand the Right to Access Third-Level Education in Ireland as part of Global Campaign

[…]and to the media, demanding the Government take action. All the while, our Government have failed to listen to our calls and make education at third-level inclusive for all through a sustainable funding model” “The high profile Rebecca Carter case in the High Court demonstrated that access to Further and Higher Education in Ireland is under threat. The judge in the initial ruling recognised that in order to be economically and socially prosperous in today’s society, it was imperative that citizens have access to higher education. The Government, rather than act to legislate on that right, shamefully challenged the ruling.” […]
Read more » Students Demand the Right to Access Third-Level Education in Ireland as part of Global Campaign

The Union of Students in Ireland said unaffordable accommodation forces students out of college with rents over €1,000 a month nationwide for the first time since the economic crash

[…]is because of a chronic supply shortage and an increase in demand, which is forcing some students to commit to a lease they can’t afford, sleep on friends’ couches, live in poor quality accommodation or endure long commutes. “The lack of purpose-built on-campus accommodation, private sector rent increases and the shortage of rental properties continues to fuel a dropout culture in third level education.” 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 […]
Read more » The Union of Students in Ireland said unaffordable accommodation forces students out of college with rents over €1,000 a month nationwide for the first time since the economic crash

National Student Engagement Network Launched in Cork

[…]aims to bring college staff and Students’ Union officers from institutions across Ireland together to discuss partnership, exchange ideas and develop initiatives. Speaking at the launch, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “Student and staff partnerships are paving the way forward for improved higher education teaching and learning, with students at the very centre. USI is proud to be supporting the work of NStEP working with institutions to assess current student engagement activities, and to identify areas for enhancement towards improved practice. This was just the first step. Now, with events like the network we can reflect on the work of […]
Read more » National Student Engagement Network Launched in Cork

USI calls for urgent voter registration reform

[…]voter registration to those about to reach the age of eligibility The exploration of moving to automatic voter registration USI directly registered nearly 28,000 students to vote ahead of the marriage equality referendum and handed out tens of thousands more forms. As a result, the organisation has developed an in-depth analysis of problems inside the current system for the registration of voters – and ways to fix them. USI President, Laura Harmon, said: ‘Being registered to vote is essential for citizens to fully participate in our democracy. Registering should be a simple and efficient process. However, the current system in […]
Read more » USI calls for urgent voter registration reform

Dont Be Afraid: Do Something

[…]of Students in Ireland) and the Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) want to remind people never to be afraid to report incidents to the Gardai, no matter what the circumstances. Denise McCarthy Deputy President/VP 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 […]

Story about student renter being told not to use kitchen is digs proves we need legislation not guidelines – USI

[…]rights here’ any longer.” In June, Minister Harris said in the Dáil that he “would like to get to the stage where we have national guidelines on digs,” but USI says that is simply not good enough and will step up our campaign for the introduction of proper legislation for students renting a room in private accommodation. USI also encourages every student to make sure they are registered to vote in next summer’s local elections. You can check the register or register online […]
Read more » Story about student renter being told not to use kitchen is digs proves we need legislation not guidelines – USI

All I want for Nollaig na mBan

[…]her life due to blood poisoning potentially caused by a miscarriage and a refusal by the doctors to carry out an abortion as requested. And Ms Y, a young migrant woman, who came to Ireland after being raped in her home country, and despite the fact she was found to suicidal and thus allowed to access an abortion under Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act, she was denied one and force fed until the foetus could be delivered by caesarian. Not all of the facts in theses cases are fully known, and may never be known. However, what is known […]

APPLICATIONS OPEN: Student QA Reviewer’s Pool 2019

[…]Ireland (USI) will explore the role of students in quality assurance with the participants. About Quality and Qualifications Ireland  Quality and Qualifications Ireland is a state agency established by the Quality Assurance and Qualifications (Education and Training) Act 2012 with a board appointed by the Minister for Education and Skills. Their functions include those previously carried out by the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC); the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC); the Irish Universities Quality Board (IUQB) and the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI). In the area of qualifications, they are responsible for maintaining the ten-level […]
Read more » APPLICATIONS OPEN: Student QA Reviewer’s Pool 2019

USI gears up to recognise student achievement

[…]of the island for their hard work and determination. The awards will be hosted by journalist and online personality Clare Cullen, with the keynote address by Senator Lynn Ruane.  The evening will conclude with the presentation of the President’s Award. SAAI nominations are open each year to members of the Union of Students in Ireland – the vast majority of college students’ unions on the island of Ireland.  Nominations and attendance for nominees and invited guests are free of […]
Read more » USI gears up to recognise student achievement

Letter to Mr Leo Varadkar T.D. Minister for Social Protection

[…]Minister, We write with reference to the now well-publicised decision of your department to refuse the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) to Erica Fleming, a homeless single parent who is currently raising her daughter in a hotel. As you know, education has a transformative quality. Education takes people out of poverty and dependence and gives them options in multiple fields of employment. Education quite literally changes lives. We are asking that Erica have the opportunity that she deserves to do just that. Erica’s case has highlighted inconsistencies in criteria for BTEA that require urgent action from you in your capacity […]
Read more » Letter to Mr Leo Varadkar T.D. Minister for Social Protection

Statement on student concerns regarding assessment

[…]students; many of whom are having difficulties in accessing the internet, may not have the devices to engage in online assessment, may be caring for family members who are unwell or are unwell themselves. We have been constructively engaging on a national level with stakeholders from across the sector through the Tertiary Education Sector Group, which is led by the Department of Education and Skills. We have continuously called for partnerships between individual Higher Education Institutions and their local Students’ Unions to ensure that the student voice is included at all levels of decision making during this time. The quality […]
Read more » Statement on student concerns regarding assessment

Statement on student concerns regarding assessment

[…]students; many of whom are having difficulties in accessing the internet, may not have the devices to engage in online assessment, may be caring for family members who are unwell or are unwell themselves. We have been constructively engaging on a national level with stakeholders from across the sector through the Tertiary Education Sector Group, which is led by the Department of Education and Skills. We have continuously called for partnerships between individual Higher Education Institutions and their local Students’ Unions to ensure that the student voice is included at all levels of decision making during this time. The quality […]
Read more » Statement on student concerns regarding assessment

Using Student Feedback to Enhance Higher Education

[…]higher education policy and practice.” Joe O’Connor, President of USI, said – “In order to enhance quality and standards in Higher Education, it is vitally important that the voice of the student is listened to and harnessed effectively. This survey, through this national partnership, allows us to gauge student feedback in a way we had previously been unable to. I would call on all students to ensure they have their say, and for Higher Education Institutions to take this input seriously in implementing initiatives following on from analysis of the data produced.” Some Results from the Pilot Survey 72% of all […]
Read more » Using Student Feedback to Enhance Higher Education

Sexual Health Education Roadshow

[…]kicks off Sexual Health Education Roadshow in NUI Maynooth Roadshow will tour campuses in effort to encourage students to practice safer sex The Union of Students in Ireland will launch its Sexual Health Education Roadshow today in NUI Maynooth at 1pm. The Roadshow is intended to educate college students about their sexual health in the hope that students who are sexually active will have enjoyable, consensual, safer sex. The Roadshow will visit four campuses from September to December and will be supplemented by an online awareness campaign. Attractions for students include interactive and educational stands run by sexual health organisations, […]

New USI Executive hosts Students’ Union Training for 2020-2021

[…]Presidents, respectively. Last year’s Vice President for the BMW Region Marie Lyons was elected to Equality and Citizenship for this year, while former Dublin Region Vice President, Craig McHugh is now Vice President for Campaigns. Gary Tobin is Vice President for the BMW Region, Megan O’Neill for the Dublin Region and Ciara Kealy for the Southern Region. Clare Austick is Welfare Vice President, Adam Clarke is the Vice President for Postgraduate Affrairs and Ellen Fearon is the NUS-USI President. Details, including phone numbers, emails, Twitter handles, and biographies can be found here. Watch out for videos introducing your USI Executive […]
Read more » New USI Executive hosts Students’ Union Training for 2020-2021

… a benefit to our whole society

[…]City Council Offices) for a discussion of education as a public and social good, bringing benefits to our whole society. Speakers Confirmed: Mike Jennings, General Secretary of Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT); Louise O’Reilly, SIPTU Education Sector Gerry Quinn, President,  Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) Laura Harmon, President, Union of Students in Ireland (USI) Irish Second Level Students’ Union The forum, convened by USI as part of its ‘Education Is’ national campaign, will focus on education as a public good, funding, student supports and students and college staff uniting on this issue. All […]

Joint letter to Russian Ambassador on LGBT persecution

[…]in Russia. Irish youth groups have handed in a letter of concern to the Russian Ambassador today to protest at the violent treatment of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender young people in Russia after a gay teenager who was allegedly kidnapped and beaten by neo-Nazis died of his injuries. BeLonG To Youth Services, The Union of Students in Ireland (USI), The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) and the International LGBTQ Youth and Student Organisation (IGLYO) have joined together to express their concern at the rise in public violence towards LGBT young people in Russia following the recent passing of […]
Read more » Joint letter to Russian Ambassador on LGBT persecution

USI Statement on the Resignation of Ruairí Quinn as Minister for Education and Skills

[…]pledge he made not to increase student fees before the last general election and rue his inability to keep to his promise.  However, we note that Minister Quinn was one of the very few ministers prepared to come to USI congress to defend his position, take questions and debate the reasons why. Minister Quinn engaged with USI on a regular basis and initiated a constructive and frank relationship with the student movement.  We hope that his successor, whomever that should be, will retain a good level of communication and discourse with students and we look forward to the development of […]
Read more » USI Statement on the Resignation of Ruairí Quinn as Minister for Education and Skills

President Higgins to meet USI and Students’ Union representatives

[…]in which they attend college. With this initiative the President has shown a genuine willingness to listen to ideas from young people and to present them as a way for our country to move forward from the regressive malaise that has taken hold for too long.” For more information contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or email media@usi.ie   The launch of Being Young and […]
Read more » President Higgins to meet USI and Students’ Union representatives

Galway woman elected new President of the Union of Students in Ireland at Congress

[…]President, Ellen Fearon, there will be a whole new team and that will give us a good opportunity to reflect on where we are and to make new, exciting plans for the future. This is still a time of huge challenge for students, and for Irish society in general, and we will be there fighting to ensure the best outcome possible is achieved for students over the year to come.” The full USI Executive team for 2021-2022, as elected today, will be: President  Clare Austick (USI Welfare Vice President, formerly NUI Galway SU) Vice-President for Academic Affairs  Megan O’Connor (Trinity […]
Read more » Galway woman elected new President of the Union of Students in Ireland at Congress

USI Supports Bodywhys Survey

[…]from Bodywhys or as part of the data collection. All the information collected will be securely stored on a password-protected computer. The information gathered will be kept for publication purposes. No one will be able to recognise you from the information presented in reports and publications. What are the risks of taking part in this research study? There are no known or anticipated risks associated with participation in this study. However if you are affected by any of the issues raised in the survey you can contact Bodywhys support services on 1890 200 444 or by emailing alex@bodywhys.ie or you can contact […]

USI Student Summit 2014: What is life as a young startup really like?

[…]local businesses in Dublin. Local businesses used the platform to reward customers for sharing in-store experiences. The more influential the customer the bigger the reward they could earn. We built successful case studies from this launch and have brought on new investors as a result. We’re now talking to global brands about integrating the technology behind their existing platforms. Our team is currently 4 people and this is set to grow to 8 before the end of the year. The support system in Ireland is incredible. Everybody wants to help out. Not a dog eat dog environment at all so […]
Read more » USI Student Summit 2014: What is life as a young startup really like?

Steven Kavanagh

[…]assisted in his role in LIT Students’ Union. For anyone who requires support or just someone to talk to, we here at USI are of course available and are happy to talk or just listen. Removal and funeral arrangements will be made available as soon as we become aware of them. Talking is a sign of strength.  There’s always someone willing to listen- Reach out to others and be there for one another. For online counselling please visit Turn2Me. In the registration process, there is a question about ‘referral pathway’, in this section you can put in ‘USI’, then they […]

USI urges students families to secure accommodation

[…]towns,” said Donoghue.   “Student numbers are rising, with more and more students having to turn to the already pressurised private rental market.  Government support for people to rent a room to students is welcome, and we’re promoting the fact of the up-to €12,000 tax free allowance for people prepared to rent their rooms to relieve the crisis.”   USI is also warning that student supports need to be examined in light of accommodation issues.   “The student assistance fund and the adjacency rates for grants are not sufficient to deal with the issues we will be facing in a […]
Read more » USI urges students families to secure accommodation

USI Strategy Documents

[…]Strategy A Vision for Partnership USI BTEA Reform Proposals USI Financial Representation Protocol USI Training Policy USI USI Union Development Strategy 2015 – […]

USI calls on all Political Parties to Commit to Mental Health Reform before the General Election

[…]waiting a month and a half is harmful for anyone in need of support.”   According to research by ReachOut, the online youth mental health service, 63% of students reported that lecture attendance has been affected by their mental ill-health. ReachOut also found that 15% of students rated their mental health as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’.   “Access to 24/7 crisis intervention services is extremely poor. Some patients who go to A&E with a mental health crisis face lengthy waits of 8 hours or more before receiving support.” Donoghue added, “Extra support should be provided for community-based mental health supports to provide 24/7 crisis intervention services.”   USI said the next […]
Read more » USI calls on all Political Parties to Commit to Mental Health Reform before the General Election

A pharma attack

Pharma attacks are injections of code through backdoors in a website which change aspects of the site.  They can replace adverts, keywords and the description of the site on search engines. Imagine our surprise, then, when our listing on Google had USI as a purveyor of drugs for erectile dysfunction and all sorts of other things. We identified the type of hack immediately and began the process of cleansing the site.  In the end, cleansing the site was impossible, so we quarantined the old one, backed up our data files and installed a completely fresh and fully updated version of […]

USI launches SHAG.usi.ie

[…]risk STIs and and unplanned pregnancy by not always using a condom. Every student has the right to good sexual health and good sexual health education. As condoms are the only form of contraception that can protect against both pregnancy and STIs, we want people to feel comfortable using and talking about them. At Durex, we are committed to raising awareness of sexual health education and the importance of safer sex, which is why we are delighted to support the USI with such an important campaign.” Seamus Creighton, Women’s Health, MSD: “We recognise that trying to decide which contraception to […]

102 Students’ Union Officers Trained

[…]their political leadership role with their Students’ Union and provide the skills and knowledge to enable officers to consider their leadership style and effectively influence and lead those around them. Within the course there are opportunities for officers to learn more about current issues facing the student movement and discuss and debate how their role plays an important part in ensuring that student in their union are represented. Key sessions took place on higher education funding with a panel from Students For Choice on ‘Why We Need To Repeal the 8th’ with Repeal the 8th Coalition Convenor, Ailbhe Smyth, Executive […]

USI Launch Say Something

[…]support staff around the issue.’’ Greg Heylin, Director of Cosc said: ‘‘Cosc was delighted to be in a position to support the roll-out of this particular study of both male and female experiences undertaken by the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). This is the first time that a study of this type and magnitude has been undertaken in Ireland. It is a significant milestone in Cosc’s goal to fill the gap of empirical evidence relevant to the lived experiences of the Irish population as a whole and, in particular, third-level students. Cosc looks forward to working with the USI […]

What is ProYouth?

[…]trained student moderators provide support and a place to express your concerns. The opportunity to book 1 to 1 chats with a health care professional, for more individual support and help to identify ways of getting better. The main objectives of the ProYouth online information and support system are: To provide information and educate about mental health, health promotion, and eating disorders. To assist young people in detecting problematic attitudes and risk behaviours early. To give tips on what young people can do to help themselves or others. To offer peer and professional support via the Internet and thus counteract the […]

USI launches accommodation relief site

[…]Kevin Donoghue was keen to stress the benefits of the system. “This site is designed to provide quality, affordable accommodation to students while easing the stress on the rental market as a whole. It will also help families who are struggling to make ends meet.” Donoghue made clear that, whilst the rent-a-room relief scheme represents a good option for students and home owners alike, the problem of under provision of accommodation in major towns needs to be addressed urgently by the government – and is likely to become a general election issue. “Long term the solution is more purpose built […]

USI writes to Government on World Eating Disorders Day 2021

[…]for families and supporters, has seen a 98 per cent increase in attendance since the groups moved online during the pandemic. According to the HSE’s Model of Care for Eating Disorders (January 2018), an estimated 188,895 people in Ireland will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives, with approximately 1,757 new cases developing in Ireland each year. The figure is likely to be higher with the increase in cases in 2020/2021. An article in the Irish Medical Journal earlier this year noted that there was a 66 per cent increase in admissions with eating disorders in 2020 […]
Read more » USI writes to Government on World Eating Disorders Day 2021

USI backs Labour Party bill to regulate gambling advertising and calls for action from Government

[…]regulator, a body that was promised by many Governments, but has never been enacted. This regulator would be expected to have oversight on how the gambling industry can advertise. USI also believes more should be done to assist those with a gambling addiction to receive the support they need and encourages those who are suffering from this addiction to reach out for advice and […]
Read more » USI backs Labour Party bill to regulate gambling advertising and calls for action from Government

USI Congratulates Leaving Cert Students on their Results

[…]before the end of October. If you withdraw before Oct 31st and take a year out, you can apply to the CAO next year and you won’t have to pay extra tuition fees and as with many people they get on great in the course they accept. As soon as you know which college you’ll be attending you need to do the following things: Sort out your accommodation. Work out how you will get to college on time everyday. Get a notebook and pen for notes and your ready. The Students’ Union website will have lots of helpful advice.” -ENDS- […]
Read more » USI Congratulates Leaving Cert Students on their Results

USI Submission to the Committee on Housing and Homelessness

[…]as a social housing issue to assist with development and planning to meet demand. 6. Consideration to be given to tax measures to develop on-campus accommodation for HEIs. 7. Engage in meaningful consultation with NAMA regarding the availability of suitable properties and land that could be used for student accommodation by HEIs or HEIs working on joint projects. 8. Encourage and facilitate the construction of multi-purpose buildings on campus. i.e. Academic, commercial and residential existing in the same building. 9. Future developments should adhere to the recommendations for enabled access for students with disabilities. 10. That all actions coming out […]
Read more » USI Submission to the Committee on Housing and Homelessness

Seanad Voter Registration

[…]the claimant should then print and sign the form. The form can then be scanned and attached to an email and sent to records@nui.ie or posted to Records Office, National University of Ireland, 49 Merrion Square, Dublin 2. Download Registration Claim / Graduate Update Form Irish version: English version:  How do I find out if I’m registered? Copies of the Seanad Éireann Electoral Register are available in the libraries of the various institutions within the NUI and the National Library. The register is also available for examination in the reception of NUI offices, 49 Merrion Square, Dublin 2. I am […]

Seanad Voter Registration

[…]the claimant should then print and sign the form. The form can then be scanned and attached to an email and sent to records@nui.ie or posted to Records Office, National University of Ireland, 49 Merrion Square, Dublin 2. Download Registration Claim / Graduate Update Form Irish version: English version:  How do I find out if I’m registered? Copies of the Seanad Éireann Electoral Register are available in the libraries of the various institutions within the NUI and the National Library. The register is also available for examination in the reception of NUI offices, 49 Merrion Square, Dublin 2. I am […]

We’re Hiring

[…]reference code for the job. The Roles are: Public Relations Executive Student Switch Off Dormitory Co-ordinator Please click on the role you’re interested in to find out […]

Students taking action to end image based sexual abuse

[…]the Committee, it will go to the Dáil and the Seanad so we will need to contact all TDs and Senators then too. You can find their names and contact details here.  Oireachtas Justice Committee Membership   Chair   James Lawless  – Fianna Fáil  Deputies  Jennifer Carroll MacNeill Fine Gael  Patrick Costello Green Party  Michael Creed Fine Gael  Pa Daly Sinn Féin  Brendan Howlin Labour Party (author of the bill)  Martin Kenny Sinn Féin  James O’Connor Fianna Fáil  Thomas Pringle Independent  Senators  Robbie Gallagher Fianna Fáil  Vincent P. Martin Green Party  Michael McDowell Independent  Lynn Ruane Independent  Barry Ward Fine Gael If you have been affected by this issue, there are supports available: Women’s Aid 24-hour free helpline – 1800 341 900 […]
Read more » Students taking action to end image based sexual abuse

USI Concerned Over Spending Of Students’ And Taxpayers’ Money

[…]investigations into these allegations is being made, it would be reckless for our Government to rush into any decision about the future funding of higher education. Higher education institutions are here to serve the public good, and the public must have confidence in how the funding of these institutions is managed. It would be inconceivable for our Government to 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 […]
Read more » USI Concerned Over Spending Of Students’ And Taxpayers’ Money

USI Response on Irish Water Open letter on Journal.ie

[…]to highlight was the apparent abandon with which Irish Water was being constituted. We missed the tone we were seeking to set, and now, correctly, you’ve pointed that out. We never intended to demean the work involved in the design, or the profession of design, which we know is valuable and vital to our work. We work closely with Irish graduate designers and design agencies throughout the year, who never fail to impress us with their ability and creativity. We’d be keen to meet with you, if you would like, to discuss our intentions in making the release we did, […]
Read more » USI Response on Irish Water Open letter on Journal.ie

OMG: Gonorrhoea… It’s Trending

[…]website, www.yoursexualhealth.ie, provides information on the facts about Gonorrhoea, safer sex, where to access free STI testing, and where to access free condoms.” Denise McCarthy, Union of Students in Ireland, said “We urge everyone to follow simple steps for prevention – get accurate and reliable information on STIs, always use a condom when having sex, and talk to your partner(s) about STI testing and using condoms. People can have Gonorrhoea and not have any signs or symptoms, so regular STI testing is encouraged, particularly if you have many sexual partners or if you have ever had unprotected sex.  Testing is […]

OMG: Gonorrhoea… It’s Trending

[…]website, www.yoursexualhealth.ie, provides information on the facts about Gonorrhoea, safer sex, where to access free STI testing, and where to access free condoms.” Denise McCarthy, Union of Students in Ireland, said “We urge everyone to follow simple steps for prevention – get accurate and reliable information on STIs, always use a condom when having sex, and talk to your partner(s) about STI testing and using condoms. People can have Gonorrhoea and not have any signs or symptoms, so regular STI testing is encouraged, particularly if you have many sexual partners or if you have ever had unprotected sex.  Testing is […]

USI launches ‘Open Up’ student mental health campaign

[…]idea that “everyone is feeling anxious,” and that there is always someone worse off leads to a situation where there is a segment of the student population experiencing high level distress but not seeking help. You can get more information about USI’s work on mental health campaign […]
Read more » USI launches ‘Open Up’ student mental health campaign

Today’s anti-racism rally sends message that Ireland is for all, says USI

[…]the line to save other people, along with others that helped too. “USI joined the ICTU protest today to add our voices to the condemnation of the riots that took place on Thursday evening, led by the far right using the attack as a mechanism to spread racism and hate. Ireland does have a racism and far-righted problem and we must continue to stand against it and work to eradicate it. Before last week, the far-right was being pushed back as tens of thousands of people joined in solidarity marches for Palestine, and we must continue to do that. “This […]
Read more » Today’s anti-racism rally sends message that Ireland is for all, says USI

5 top-tips for college open days.

[…] Sit down with your parents and find out if you are eligible for the SUSI Grant? Take these factors into consideration and work out what you can/can’t afford in terms of college accommodation. Campus a good fit? Is the campus a good fit for you? Identify if you would prefer to attend a small and community orientated college or perhaps you would enjoy the hustle and bustle or a larger campus with a diverse range […]

USI Issues Advice For Leaving Certificate Class of 2017

[…]for students coming to college next year who are unsure 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 […]
Read more » USI Issues Advice For Leaving Certificate Class of 2017

Action needed on Gaeltacht fees for Hibernia students

[…]colleges, according to the Union of Students in Ireland. No student should be charged an extra fee to complete a mandatory and integral part of their college course and USI is calling on Ministers Simon Harris, Norma Foley and Catherine Martin to ensure this is the case for students of Hibernia College. The fee charged for the mandatory Gaeltacht placement for student teachers was waived in Budget 2020 through the reintroduction of the Gaeltacht Grant, something for which USI had campaigned heavily in the years prior. However, students in Hibernia College are ineligible for this grant as Hibernia is a […]
Read more » Action needed on Gaeltacht fees for Hibernia students

USI launches National Student Housing Survey

[…]responses, students may enter the draw to win an iPad mini or one of five €50 One4All Multi-Store Gift Cards. Notes: USI aims to gather evidence of the current student accommodation, to feed into a report on current student housing situation, which will serve as evidence for the Student Accommodation Strategy, one of the actions of “Rebuilding Ireland, Action Plan For Housing and Homelessness” published by the Department for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government in July 2016. USI encourages all students to fill out the survey to ensure that the sample reflects the diversity of student population. Students can […]

Union of Students in Ireland launches J1 Guide 2016

[…]said. “Once students have a job secured, they’ll have all the hard work done and be able to look forward to a great summer in the US.” Speaking in advance of the launch, Minister Jimmy Deenihan said: “The J1 Summer Work and Travel programme has played an extremely positive role in building US-Irish links over the past 50 years. The Government’s focus is on maximising student participation in the J1 programme in 2016 and beyond. I am pleased that the Department is in a position to support USI in the production of this excellent and informative guide. I strongly encourage […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland launches J1 Guide 2016

Higher Education Performance Targets nothing to be afraid of

[…]needs in their pursuit of targets and criteria, and on the potential impact of funding cuts linked to the failure to deliver on these targets. Joe O’Connor, President of the Union of Students in Ireland said: In delivering a qualified welcome to this Framework, it is hugely important to note that in terms of delivering on these targets, Higher Education Institutes play to their own individual strengths and the ethos of each Institute is fully respected. Not only that, the needs of students must be the core tenet of any performance targets which are laid down. This also applies to […]
Read more » Higher Education Performance Targets nothing to be afraid of

Governance Committee

[…]at least six times a year.  The role of Governance Committee is to ensure the legal and regulatory compliance of USI and to develop and implement policies in the areas of governance, financial management, human resource management and risk management.  The President reports to National Council on the work of Governance Committee and Governance Committee makes an annual report on its work to Congress.     Sub-committees or working groups may be set up by Governance Committee as needed with the approval of National Council.  In order to fulfill its responsibilities, Governance Committee undertakes the tasks detailed in the Constitution and Handbook. […]

USI backs TUS SU campaign to stop university management removing student space

[…]away the student space on the Athlone campus that is currently used by the Students’ Union to store and distribute free period products, condoms and exam packs, as well as for other student-focused campaigns. The Students’ Union received an email that the college is converting the space, saying the decision is final – this follows a recent move by the university to take away a student space on the TUS Moylish campus in Limerick. USI President, Chris Clifford said: “This a vital space for the Students’ Union on the Athlone campus and they will not stand by and let this […]
Read more » USI backs TUS SU campaign to stop university management removing student space

National Forum and USI Launch Teaching Hero Awards

[…]present a truly unique opportunity for students to lead the conversation as to what it means to be a good teacher. The 2014 awards showed that there is a real appetite to celebrate the impact that these individuals make and I genuinely can’t wait to see what comes out of the new cycle. Dr Terry Maguire, Director of the National Forum, commented: With the leadership of the students’ unions in each of Ireland’s higher education institutions, we received testimonies from thousands of higher education students during our inaugural Teaching Hero awards 2014. Their voices helped to form a key foundation […]
Read more » National Forum and USI Launch Teaching Hero Awards

USI Call on Increased Public Investment in Higher Education

[…]rents, fees and cost of college coupled with reduced student supports is a considerable threat to access to Higher Education. The increased staff-student ratio provides a significant threat in attempting to maintain and enhance quality standards. The Report identifies that the sector has coped exceptionally well in recent years given the vast reduction in resources per student, but in short, this is unsustainable and cannot be allowed to continue. It is also abundantly clear the vital role that Higher Education must continue to play in the future economic recovery of this country. The Discussion Paper commissioned by the Nevin Economic Research […]
Read more » USI Call on Increased Public Investment in Higher Education

USI, HEA and QQI join forces to put students at the centre of their learning

[…]initiative of the Union of Students in Ireland (USI), QQI and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) to give effect to the recently launched Principles for Student Engagement. The project is being developed in consultation with Sparqs (Student Partnership in Quality Scotland).   “NStEP will develop student capabilities and institutional capacity to enhance engagement at all levels across the higher education system.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “It encourages communication and feedback between students and staff and empowers students to improve teaching, and in turn, their own learning.”   The project’s objective is to develop the capacity of student representatives in […]
Read more » USI, HEA and QQI join forces to put students at the centre of their learning

The Union of Students in Ireland Slammed Ógra Fianna Fáil for their Loan Scheme Proposal

[…]“a pragmatic approach to our declining 3rd level system is needed – one that provides a good quality education that is free at point of access and that makes higher education affordable to students.” However, the USI said that an already broken loan system will only further fracture the structure of the Irish education system.   In supposed times of recovery, 30,000 people have already emigrated from Ireland this year alone. The USI said this loan system will only push people further away and outlined that other countries in Europe offer better pay and lower registration fees, making the cost […]
Read more » The Union of Students in Ireland Slammed Ógra Fianna Fáil for their Loan Scheme Proposal

Speak Up: BAI Launch Public Consultation on 3 year Strategy

[…]BAI’s draft Strategy Statement – along with supporting information – is available to view now at: www.baifuture.ie.  During the consultation period, anyone wishing to make a submission on the draft statement can do so through this website, by email to info@bai.ie or by post: Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, 2-5 Warrington Place, Dublin […]
Read more » Speak Up: BAI Launch Public Consultation on 3 year Strategy

Students facing ‘extreme stress’ over lack of rent refunds

[…]the accommodation issues students are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the USI created an online portal to enable members to share their stories with the union. In one message, Orla, a student in St Angela’s College said: “Having to pay over €1,000 for accommodation that I can’t be in is very upsetting and challenging. Now I have to start paying a deposit for next year’s accommodation not knowing if I’ll be able to afford it. My usual summer job doesn’t look like it will be operating as normal and so I’ll have no income. I don’t qualify for the COVID […]
Read more » Students facing ‘extreme stress’ over lack of rent refunds

Students should be refunded for accommodation they cannot use due to pandemic

[…]notice, or regard for if they have somewhere else to go. Roisin said: “Students are just being told to leave their digs with very little or no notice.  Many do not have alternative accommodation options and are scrambling to find somewhere else to stay to avoid becoming homeless. It’s a very concerning situation and there needs to be provision made for them. They need to be afforded similar rights and protections as other tenants, whereby they get notice of being asked to leave and get their deposits back. And they need to be given priority to take places in Purpose […]
Read more » Students should be refunded for accommodation they cannot use due to pandemic

20,000 Students Received Organ Donor Cards Across Ireland

[…]matter. For organs, it is the person’s physical condition, not age, which is the determining factor. Doctors decide in each case whether it is possible to use them. An Organ Donor Card can to be sent to you by post if you prefer.  Simply click on the image to the left and fill out the online form. An organ Donor card will be posted out to you within 3 working days. For more information […]
Read more » 20,000 Students Received Organ Donor Cards Across Ireland

20,000 Students Received Organ Donor Cards Across Ireland

[…]matter. For organs, it is the person’s physical condition, not age, which is the determining factor. Doctors decide in each case whether it is possible to use them. An Organ Donor Card can to be sent to you by post if you prefer.  Simply click on the image to the left and fill out the online form. An organ Donor card will be posted out to you within 3 working days. For more information […]
Read more » 20,000 Students Received Organ Donor Cards Across Ireland

BIG LOVE – World Record Attempt

[…]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 […]

Youth vote critical to equal marriage referendum, say Student Leaders

[…]have, and will continue to have, a key role in working to try and deliver equality.”  Notes to Editor: 1) Young people are above the national average when in comes to supporting equal access to civil marriage. In the academic year 2013-2014, three Students’ Unions (Trinity College Dublin, NUI Galway and IT Tralee) held referenda on this issue and students voted over 92% in favour of marriage equality. 2) The recent campus.ie survey indicated that over 89% of students were in favour. 3) Red C polls earlier this year showed that 76% of the general public are in […]
Read more » Youth vote critical to equal marriage referendum, say Student Leaders

Government urged to support USI student accommodation bill in Dáil debate

[…]thousands of euro in prepaid rent. USI is calling on Government and all other TDs in the Dáil to support the Bill, bring it to committee stage and act on it urgently. USI Vice President for Campaigns, Craig McHugh said: “This bill would begin to even the playing field between student renters and renters who hold a traditional lease. For too long students have had sub-par rental rights and the COVID-19 pandemic really brought this home to many. We are hopeful that Government will recognise this tomorrow and indicate their support for the bill.   “Such support would enable us to continue the really […]
Read more » Government urged to support USI student accommodation bill in Dáil debate

USI rejects contribution fee proposals

[…]is to the whole of the society, not just students and graduates – so it’s unfair to single out students to pay for massive investment. d) Graduates tend to earn more over their lifetimes and therefore pay significantly more in […]

Archive of student activism for Marriage Equality launches on fifth anniversary of vote

[…]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 organised […]
Read more » Archive of student activism for Marriage Equality launches on fifth anniversary of vote

Students warned of rental accommodation scams ahead of Leaving Cert results

[…]with the average rent price in your search area. If the rent is unusually low and seems to be good to be true, it usually is. Use online maps to confirm that the property being advertised actually exists and is at the stated address. Check short term rental sites to ensure the property is not being used by a fraudster for fake “viewings” who will take your deposit money.   Be Secure: Keep copies of all correspondence between yourself and the advertiser, including bank details and the advertisement itself. Use legitimate well-known rental agencies where possible. Don’t hand over any […]
Read more » Students warned of rental accommodation scams ahead of Leaving Cert results

Students Register to Vote Ahead of 2019/2020 Elections

[…]have today launched the 2019 / 2020 ‘Generation Vote’ campaign, encouraging all students to register to vote ahead of a possible General Election and Referendum.   The Union of Students in Ireland are encouraging students to register to vote now, using the RFA form available on www.checktheregister.ie. Many students transferring from second to third level education have not yet registered to vote, USI alongside Students’ Unions around the country will be running voter registration drives all year to ensure students are on the register ahead of a possible General Election and Referendum   USI are encouraging students to vote on […]
Read more » Students Register to Vote Ahead of 2019/2020 Elections

Students asked to consider if they should travel to rented accommodation by USI

[…]where they would be happier living and studying if they have little or no on-campus activity and to take into account the need to keep travel between regions to a minimum. Lorna said: “If you are a student due to start college next week and have secured accommodation, it’s important to consider whether you really have to travel. If you have no on-campus activities, would you be better off staying at home and not moving outside of your region. If you are still at home and were planning to move closer to your college, or if you have already travelled, […]
Read more » Students asked to consider if they should travel to rented accommodation by USI

IUA, THEA and USI recommend using the National Training Fund to address higher education funding crisis

[…]representative bodies for universities, institutes of technology and students – have come together to make the case for investment in higher education by the next Government. State funding per student to third level institutions 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 […]
Read more » IUA, THEA and USI recommend using the National Training Fund to address higher education funding crisis

Union of Students in Ireland statement

[…]to campaigning for equality in our society and for radical changes across our island. We need to listen to black people and people of colour. We can and must do better. We stand in solidarity with everyone impacted by recent events in the US. Too many black people and people of colour have died, suffering under systemic oppression. We urge our members to listen to, amplify and take their lead from black people leading the reaction on this island to current events. Across Ireland, black people and people of colour face racism in their daily lives. This racism takes many […]

Union of Students in Ireland welcomes Scrapping of JobBridge and Commends Leo Varadkar on reducing exploitation in the workplace

[…]terms significantly reduced from the current six-to-nine month practises currently in place to one-to-two months. He also said there should be no expectation of overtime, unreasonable commutes, or unfair work practises in the new system. USI is urging the Minister to put strict monitoring into place in the new internship scheme where if a company is reported for poor or illegal work practises, they should be disallowed to continue taking on interns. “Leo Varadkar should be praised for getting rid of a system that has destroyed employment prospects for many of our generation.” Donoghue said. “JobBridge promotes unhealthy, unstable work […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland welcomes Scrapping of JobBridge and Commends Leo Varadkar on reducing exploitation in the workplace

Accommodation and Finance Support 

[…]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 […]

Mature Students Convention

[…]2012 Mature Students Convention at NUI Maynooth on 13 October 2012 Register Here The event is a good networking opportunity for mature students and mature students’ societies. There will be training provided on issues such as time management, budgeting, minding your mental health, running a mature students society and opportunities for mature students to give feedback on how their issues can be best represented. Lunch will be provided and registration is €10, payable on the […]

USI and HSE tell STIs to SHAG off

[…]cases in women. 5. USI and Think Contraception will be in launching in DCU on Monday followed by touring to ITSligo on Tuesday,WaterfordIT on Wednesday and Queens University Belfast on Thursday. 6. For more information see […]

SUSI Report Confirms Minister Failed Students in Blind Pursuit of Savings

[…]only contribution to the launch of the review was to say that the Department ‘will continue to monitor how SUSI responds to new applications when it launches again next week.’ The Minister cursorily noted that SUSI has received sanction for additional staff resources. This is indicative of the level of empathy that Minister Quinn has shown to the thousands of families who were left financially stranded because of the failings of the new grant system. The Department was initially quick to blame students and parents for the delays, swiftly followed by the Department’s blaming of City of Dublin VEC, which […]
Read more » SUSI Report Confirms Minister Failed Students in Blind Pursuit of Savings

Students to Participate in World’s First LGBTI+ Youth Strategy

[…]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 in the consultations happening around the country, just contact your local Students’ Union welfare officer by email. All events are after 6pm apart from the National Dublin event, which will be during the day on Saturday May 13th. Register your interest now to your local SU Welfare officer, and further info will be sent to you in the coming week. Dates and details are below.   Further Q’s: […]
Read more » Students to Participate in World’s First LGBTI+ Youth Strategy

USI demonstration urges TDs to sign Education for All pledge and action from Minister

[…]Education, Simon Harris to act on the key elements of the pledge, including starting the process to move towards an end to the Student Contribution Charge of €3,000, which is the highest undergraduate fee in the European Union. Local Students’ Union members across Ireland are also staging socially distanced actions outside the offices of TDs in their constituencies calling on them to sign the USI pledge and commit to taking the action needed to support students. USI Vice President for Campaigns, Craig McHugh said: “Today we have stepped up our Education for All campaign and are keen to get the […]
Read more » USI demonstration urges TDs to sign Education for All pledge and action from Minister

The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching & Learning Launch Student Led ‘Teaching Hero’ Awards in Higher Education

[…]Forum.  The Forum’s mission is to work in collaboration with all higher education institutions to enhance the quality of the learning experience for students. Prof Sarah Moore Chair of the National Forum said: ‘The launch of these awards is a very significant initiative: it highlights the importance of showcasing and sharing examples of best practice, it puts the student voice at the centre of our work and it will help to provide both inspiration and information for our enhancement mandate. Excellent teachers do more than come to lectures prepared. They set us on career paths, share their passion and they […]
Read more » The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching & Learning Launch Student Led ‘Teaching Hero’ Awards in Higher Education

International students must be considered in COVID-19 measures

[…]students can receive their possessions without facing additional costs to have their luggage stored or other such situations we are seeing.” Concerns are also being expressed about the fact that less than a quarter of respondents reported having their own room in their accommodation, with more than 40 percent saying they share a room with three or more people. ICOS Executive Director, Sarah Lennon said: “Overcrowding in accommodation creates problems not just in relation to COVID-19 but also in terms of accessing online classes and overall privacy and well-being. International students have expressed concerns about their ability to self-isolate if […]
Read more » International students must be considered in COVID-19 measures

Chats for Change: USI launches Mental Health campaign

[…]Chats for Change themed webinar for students from their EMEA HQ on Thursday 13th November at 7pm to spark online conversation about mental health. Greg O’Donoghue , USI VP for Welfare said: “”We are encouraging students to start the conversation about mental health. No matter how happy someone may seem, don’t be afraid to ask them how they are, you never know how they are feeling on the inside. We want students to take action by getting involved in activities to combat the stress and mental strains they experience. College is great fun but it can sometimes have it’s stresses […]
Read more » Chats for Change: USI launches Mental Health campaign

USI launches cyberbullying awareness campaign “Think Before You Type”

[…]the Guide here. Denise McCarthy, Vice President for Welfare said: “Social media is designed to bring people together, but when it’s used to exclude and target people the effects can be devastating. Welfare officers around the country report an increasing number of students citing incidents of harassment and online abuse. Many students are unaware of the support services available to them and how to go about reporting it. USI, in partnership with Ireland’s major youth organisations, will raise awareness of the issue and hopefully curtail this worrying trend. I am delighted that Congress has approved our policy on this matter […]
Read more » USI launches cyberbullying awareness campaign “Think Before You Type”

USI seeks to tackle student housing crisis

[…]Dublin has risen enormously, pricing many students out of the accommodation market.  Many “buy-to-renters” have repurposed accommodation they had previously made available to students for wealthier renters.  To compound this, the value of the student grant has fallen against inflation over a number of years. The end result will be students unhoused and dropping out. USI is calling for the government to form a task force on student accommodation – there needs to be a specific strategy on this serious and growing problem.” As a short-term measure to support the initiative, the Union of Students in Ireland has put together a […]

Response to PayPal’s Louise Phelan: The Facts on Ireland’s Graduates

[…]for graduate employees instead of offering speculation based on anecdotal evidence. If we want to debate the quality of our graduates then we should be equipped with the facts to do so and the ability to take responsibility for our own obligations in this regard.” Editor’s Note: Louise Phelan first made these statements in an article that appeared in the Irish Independent on Tuesday, March 12. Link: http://www.independent.ie/business/irish/paypal-boss-says-graduates-are-not-hungry-enough-to-succeed-29123273.html -ENDS- For more information contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or […]
Read more » Response to PayPal’s Louise Phelan: The Facts on Ireland’s Graduates

Sample Page

[…]does all kinds of awesome things for the Gotham community. As a new WordPress user, you should go to your dashboard to delete this page and create new pages for your content. Have […]

Sample Page

[…]does all kinds of awesome things for the Gotham community. As a new WordPress user, you should go to your dashboard to delete this page and create new pages for your content. Have […]

USI Cyberbullying Policy

[…](MOs) in developing a cyber-bullying policy for their Union. To provide support and guidance to MOs to bring said policy to their Governing Authority for adoption and to add on to existing policies covering bullying and harassment. Responsibility for the Cyberbullying Policy Unless otherwise stated, USI Officer Board is responsible for the implementation of the USI Cyber Bullying Policy. The USI Welfare Officer shall provide any support needed by MOs to implement their own Cyberbullying policies. This policy will be reviewed at the end of each academic year by USI Officer Board and any changes will be subject to approval […]

The Coalition for Publicly Funded Higher Education call for immediate governmental investment in third level education sector

[…]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 the rot in our university sector.” “Eight years of funding cuts have put higher education at crisis point.” Aidan Kenny, Assistant General Secretary of TUI (Teachers’ Union of Ireland) said. “The system’s capacity to produce high-quality results is at risk. There is an urgent need for immediate short-term funding to protect quality and participation. A long-term sustainable investment strategy is required to equip the system for […]
Read more » The Coalition for Publicly Funded Higher Education call for immediate governmental investment in third level education sector

Student Summit 2016 Will Launch in Dublin Castle on the 4th February!

[…]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 giving students an advantage on their own entrepreneurial adventure. Sponsors for the Student Summit include Just Eat, Bank of Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Azon, Grad Ireland and Twitter. The official media partners are SputOut and The Journal. You can book tickets to the Student Summit here – […]
Read more » Student Summit 2016 Will Launch in Dublin Castle on the 4th February!

Leaving Cert Isn’t A Measure of Who You Are as a Person

[…]available there if things don’t work out your way. “It is important to remember, no matter how good or bad it is tomorrow, the Leaving Cert isn’t a measure of who you are as a person or how capable you are as an individual. “It’s a big day for a lot of people, but it is one day and there are options available and there is support available there if you need them tomorrow morning or indeed the week ahead.” via […]
Read more » Leaving Cert Isn’t A Measure of Who You Are as a Person

Accommodation FAQs

Where will I find accommodation? If you are moving away from home and you’re not sure where to look for accommodation, there are a few places you could go to for advice. Contact the Students’ Union in the college you will be attending, look up various websites such as daft.ie and the college website where you’ll find details about campus accommodation. The college could have an accommodation office or someone in student services who can advise you on accommodation in the area. You can also check out homes.usi.ie. Many homeowners rent a room in their home to students who study […]

FAQs on Fees, Withdrawals and Disputes

[…]send a calm and polite email address to the member of staff, briefly state your issue, and ask to meet to discuss it. If you feel comfortable having the first meeting informally without representation then do so, but if you want to bring someone with you then you should inform the member of staff. In that case, they may wish to have representation too.   What do I do if I fail an exam? The best and most obvious advice is not to panic. The options available to you vary not only from college to college, but also from department […]

Accounts and Finances

[…]USI online ‘Student Shop’ A joint venture with Green IT for the sale of discounted refurbed laptops to students The ‘USI Extra’ Card Congress mandates: The USI President to take responsibility for the implementation of USI’s Income Diversification Strategy and commercial targets, including the successful rollout of the approved projects.   14 AF 5     COMPENSATION OF IRISH OFFICER Congress notes the importance of the Irish language: Congress further notes the effort and commitment of the VP for the Irish Language in USI. Congress is concerned: That the work of the VP for the Irish Language is uncompensated with the exception […]

USI Launches Guide To Student Life

[…]you what to look out for, the questions to ask, how to avoid getting into unmanageable debt and where to go if things go wrong. USI aims to provide practical tips and advice on the wide range of topics covered in the guide. College is full of new and exciting experiences but with all this excitement comes anxiety too. It is essential for students to be made aware of the various rights, support and responsibilities they now have”. PRTB CEO Ann Marie Caulfield said: “This is the second year that the PRTB has sponsored the USI to produce this booklet […]

USI elects second term President for first time in almost a decade

[…]how much they will have to be on campus next year. And Lorna outlined how the union will continue to campaign to ensure that needs of students are to the forefront of policy-makers’ minds as the country deals with the fallout of the pandemic. She said: “We have a lot of work to do now. Some of the hardest work is not done behind a megaphone, it is done by having conversations with people – changing the hearts and minds of parents, friends, partners and so many others. Our movement is over 60 years old now and we have achieved […]
Read more » USI elects second term President for first time in almost a decade

This Week in USI April 22nd – 28th, 2017

[…]and more. The Vice President for Academic Affairs spoke to RTÉ Drivetime and The Last Word on Today FM to call for better supports for students who are considering withdrawing from college. See our full statement here: The Vice President for Welfare met with head of the PCHEI to discuss student counselling and working with the organisation in the future to share knowledge and to increase campaign and lobbying efforts. The Vice President for Welfare with the head of PCHEI met with the Minister for Mental health and Older People Helen McEntee to discuss higher education, students and mental health […]

Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2018 celebrates student success

[…]best it can be. Higher education brings out the best in people. Through education, welfare and equality activism to holding people to account in student media, it’s safe to say that people here today have contributed massively to their own campuses and the student movement nationally. “Nominees and winners are in prime positions to make contacts, enhance their CVs, and gain huge confidence in their abilities. The awards attracted a particularly high standard of application, and the standard is increasing every year. Reading some applications has confirmed why I fight for students everyday. I look forward to celebrating student success […]
Read more » Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2018 celebrates student success

900 Rooms Immediately Available To Help Tackle Student Accommodation Crisis

[…]Students have somewhere warm and safe near where they’re studying. The homeowner gets to claim up to €14,000-a-year tax free. Worryingly, 38 students in our study on housing stated that they have no accommodation and had to sleep on friends’ couches, floors or in cars. In two cases, students declared sleeping rough and availing of homeless aid. We don’t want to see this happen to more students.” “To have 900 rooms ready to rent at one time on homes.usi.ie is a clear sign that homeowners are responding to the student accommodation crisis.” Michael Kerrigan, USI President, said. “There is still […]
Read more » 900 Rooms Immediately Available To Help Tackle Student Accommodation Crisis

The Week in USI 22-27 January 2017

[…]afternoon, the VP Welfare and VP Academic Affairs met with SUSI to review a proposed new online learning module to help sabbatical officers help students with grant applications. NUS-USI has launched an info hub for voter registration for 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 […]

Union of Students in Ireland to hold seminar on publicly funded higher education

[…]in loans in England are written off. £54 billion is currently outstanding from loans, projected to rise to £330 billion in 2044. Schedule: 8.30am Arrival and Registration – Teas/Coffees – Refreshments 9am – Opening from USI 9.15am – Presentation from Tom Healy (Nevin Economic Research Institute) on the NERI working paper on HE funding options 10am – An International Perspective on Higher Education Funding – Adam Wright, NUSUK 10.30am –  Panel Discussion with IFUT, SIPTU, NUSUK and Irish Second Level Students’ Union 11.15am – closing remarks 11.30am – close For more information please contact: Laura Harmon, USI President: […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland to hold seminar on publicly funded higher education

USI: Sexual Health and Empowerment is in your hands

[…]national survey on consent was the ‘Say Something’ survey in 2013, so it’s time for more up to date data to be reflective of the student society at the moment in Ireland. We’re looking forward to gaining a better insight into students’ sexual experiences and how we can best move forward with the ‘Consent  Framework’”. [ENDS] The survey can be found at www.usi.ie/SES   Notes: The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) represent over 374,000 students across the island of Ireland The SHAG acronym stands for Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance. The SHAG packs are funded by HSE Sexual Health […]
Read more » USI: Sexual Health and Empowerment is in your hands

USI launch new report on student accommodation

[…]has forced students, families and professionals to race for accommodation, and compete for somewhere to live. In many instances, this competition has pushed students to take accommodation that exists outside of their price range.” “More than 25,000 students have already accepted their college places yesterday from the CAO.” Michael Kerrigan, USI President, said. “There is still a shortage of accommodation, and students are being crammed into small spaces, with harsh living conditions and horror stories of the state of living. While most of the accommodation has already been taken up, anyone who has already accepted their place at college should […]
Read more » USI launch new report on student accommodation

Preparing for Marriage Equality Referendum, Cork – USI President’s speech

[…]chats; taxi chats – whether you’re gay or straight we all have a role to play and a story to tell. Young people and students have an enormous role to play in this referendum and they also recognise that they have a responsibility to be active. This is about the future of this country. USI and the student movement has been active on LGBT issues since the 1979’s and we were a driving force in the decriminalisation campaign that led to 1993. We sure as hell won’t be stopping now. We have been blown away by the level of enthusiasm […]
Read more » Preparing for Marriage Equality Referendum, Cork – USI President’s speech

Accommodation FAQs

[…]will I find accommodation? If you are moving away from home and you’re not sure where to look for accommodation, there are a few places you could go to for advice. Contact the Students’ Union in the college you will be attending, look up various websites such as daft.ie and the college website where you’ll find details about campus accommodation. The college could have an accommodation office or someone in student services who can advise you on accommodation in the area. What should I check when I’m viewing accommodation? Check that all appliances are working, check for dampness and/or don’t […]

USI launch the ‘Say Something’ card after survey shows that 16% of Students experience unwanted sexual experience

[…]were victims of attempted rape. In over six in ten cases (61% for Women, 68% for Men) the perpetrator was believed to be under the influence of alcohol. “We hope that these statistics will shed new light on the area of violence, including physical and sexual harassment.” Kevin Donoghue, President of the Union of Students in Ireland, said “We hope this card will be an aid to students who find themselves in the position where they’re victims of violence and don’t know what to do next. We want to reverse the culture of victim blaming in Ireland and instead of […]
Read more » USI launch the ‘Say Something’ card after survey shows that 16% of Students experience unwanted sexual experience

USI Calls on the Government to restore €1 million grant to improve Irish Language Teaching

The Union of Students in Ireland is calling on the government to restore the grant for student teachers’ attendance at mandatory Gaeltacht courses at a cost of €1 million, following their call for a change in the way Irish is taught in April, with more of an emphasis on verbal teaching. USI said while the Gaeltacht courses were absolutely vital to improving fluency, the Gaeltacht placement fees will deter students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds from enrolling in teaching courses. The Common European Framework for Languages (CEF) provided a guideline on the proficiency of language learners across Europe which emphasised the […]
Read more » USI Calls on the Government to restore €1 million grant to improve Irish Language Teaching

USI says Minister Quinn is developing two-tiered education system with introduction of new Postgraduate Loan Scheme

[…]project between the government and Bank of Ireland, will only be available to students with a good credit history. This development is particularly worrying as the government scrapped financial assistance for postgraduate students late last year. According to Bank of Ireland, the loan scheme will cover the full cost of course fees, less any grant received towards fees. It will be paid directly to the College and allows for reduced payments while studying. The loan will be in the student’s own name. Repayments will be interest-only for the period of study and an additional 3 months thereafter, at which point repayments […]
Read more » USI says Minister Quinn is developing two-tiered education system with introduction of new Postgraduate Loan Scheme

USI Launches Energy Saving Push

[…]students in dormitories, each competing to save the most energy and win prizes. We will tap into online student communities through social media, using engaging digital communications (quizzes, photo competitions) to raise awareness of how students can save energy in a fun way. The centrepiece of each competition will be an energy dashboard that updates students in near-real time on the performance and position of their dormitory in the competition – providing feedback and encouraging further action” USI is the national representative body for the 354,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland. USI are a membership organisation […]

National Student Housing Report 2017

[…]has forced students, families and professionals to race for accommodation, and compete for somewhere to live. In many instances, this competition has pushed students to take accommodation that exists outside of their price range.” “More than 25,000 students have already accepted their college places yesterday from the CAO.” Michael Kerrigan, USI President, said. “There is still a shortage of accommodation, and students are being crammed into small spaces, with harsh living conditions and horror stories of the state of living. While most of the accommodation has already been taken up, anyone who has already accepted their place at college should […]

Roscommon native Joe O’Connor elected USI President

[…]not only inform my term as USI President but also provide the necessary motivation in our fight to protect access to higher education. While the challenges ahead will test the student movement like seldom before, I am ready to lead the charge and urge the students of Ireland to join me in the pursuit of a quality and affordable education system.” -ENDS- For more information contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or […]
Read more » Roscommon native Joe O’Connor elected USI President

76% of Students Worry About Securing Employment & only 23% have secured employment when they graduate

[…]coaches’ will be on hand to guide students through the tricky journey of finding a job and an online employment hub where students will be able to see info about open positions and apply in advance.   “The Union of Students in Ireland is delighted to be launching the 2016 Gradfair in Dublin castle,” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said, “In a time of economic recovery employers are hiring again. USI believes in sustainable, long-term employment, not exploitative JobBridge schemes, and the After Grad will teach young graduates and soon-to-be graduates the best ways to build a career that harnesses their […]
Read more » 76% of Students Worry About Securing Employment & only 23% have secured employment when they graduate

HIV diagnosis increased by 30% last year according to new figures released by HPSC

[…]Days at HIV Ireland, 70 Eccles Street with the message ‘no shame, no judgment, just support!’ to encourage students to get tested, as new figures from Health Protection Surveillance Centre show a 30% increase in HIV in Ireland.   There were 491 new HIV diagnosis notified during 2015 – an increase of 30% compared to 2014. Among those 491, 49.7% were men who have had sex with men, 23.8% were heterosexual, 9.2% were people who inject drugs, and 0.8% were mother-to-child transmissions.   “USI is encouraging students across Ireland to regularly get tested.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President said. “STI screenings are […]
Read more » HIV diagnosis increased by 30% last year according to new figures released by HPSC

HIV diagnosis increased by 30% last year according to new figures released by HPSC

[…]Days at HIV Ireland, 70 Eccles Street with the message ‘no shame, no judgment, just support!’ to encourage students to get tested, as new figures from Health Protection Surveillance Centre show a 30% increase in HIV in Ireland.   There were 491 new HIV diagnosis notified during 2015 – an increase of 30% compared to 2014. Among those 491, 49.7% were men who have had sex with men, 23.8% were heterosexual, 9.2% were people who inject drugs, and 0.8% were mother-to-child transmissions.   “USI is encouraging students across Ireland to regularly get tested.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President said. “STI screenings are […]
Read more » HIV diagnosis increased by 30% last year according to new figures released by HPSC

USI welcomes Positive Impact of Gender Quotas in GE, calling it Huge Progress in Gender Balance in Politics

[…]“But it also means that almost 4 in 5 politicians are still male. While there is a long way to go to achieve true gender balance in politics, the gender quota is a good start. A diversity of voices in our politics will lead to more robust decisions, and help create a more equal, broader and more dynamic society.”   The Union of Students in Ireland organises a Women in Leadership Training weekend every year and had more female speakers than male at this year’s Student Summit in Dublin castle on the 4th February. The USI said the strength of […]
Read more » USI welcomes Positive Impact of Gender Quotas in GE, calling it Huge Progress in Gender Balance in Politics

Union of Students in Ireland marks World Mental Health Day 2020 with day of action and letter to Minister Simon Harris

[…]role in the development of this strategy and I want to again thank every student who shared their stories to help us get to this point.” USI has also marked World Mental Health Day by writing to Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris; Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly; and Minister of State for Mental Health, Mary Butler to reiterate the need for sustainable, annual core funding to be provided to expand and secure, accessible and fully-funded student mental health services. USI Vice President for Welfare, Clare Austick said: “The announcement of €5 million funding to support […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland marks World Mental Health Day 2020 with day of action and letter to Minister Simon Harris

USI Physical Health Strategy

[…]where feasible. 8. Cook with/eat foods that are in season as they are cheaper and avail of in store promotions e.g. buy one get one free – stock up where you can. 9. Limit your alcohol consumption – if you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation, preferably with meals and have some alcohol free days. Heavy or binge drinking (five or more standard drinks on one occasion), especially on a regular basis, can lead to serious health problems. (Nutrition and Health Foundation, 2008) 2.5) Weight and mental health Depression affects different people in different ways. Some people lose […]

Registering your SU to Deal Effect

[…]below will explain (refresh page if not displaying correctly). Registration Process 1. Log on to http://www.dealeffect.ie/charities/new and complete the form (as shown below). If your SU does not have a Facebook or Twitter page, leave blank. (although we recommend that you set a Facebook page up for promoting your SU and communicating with students). Remember the password you create as this will be used to access your charity admin page in the future. Username will be your best SU email address. Please use a generic email address that is unlikely to change as this cannot be modified by us (or […]

Our Projects: Saves 2

[…]for helping with the startup. We’re hugely grateful to a number of organisations for getting us where we are today – Ben & Jerry’s for supporting us from the start and Carbon Leapfrog (especially Bird & Bird, Andrew Woods and Garry Charnock) for securing us free legal and accountancy advice when we first started up as a not-for-profit. A lot of help from the European Commission. The SAVES2 programme is funded across Europe through the Horizon 2020 programme and we are immensely grateful for this support – not to mention proud to use the EU […]

Our Projects: Saves 2

[…]for helping with the startup. We’re hugely grateful to a number of organisations for getting us where we are today – Ben & Jerry’s for supporting us from the start and Carbon Leapfrog (especially Bird & Bird, Andrew Woods and Garry Charnock) for securing us free legal and accountancy advice when we first started up as a not-for-profit. A lot of help from the European Commission. The SAVES2 programme is funded across Europe through the Horizon 2020 programme and we are immensely grateful for this support – not to mention proud to use the EU […]

Union of Students in Ireland teams up with UPLIFT to call for signatories to open letter demanding student rent refunds

[…]students have underlying health conditions and have had to move home in order for them to be able to self-isolate away from their shared student accommodation. Some students had very tough decisions to make in a hurry, such as those from India who had 24 hours to decide whether to go home as the borders were closing and they didn’t have time to get reassurance on rent refunds. The USI is calling on the companies – ISA Accommodation Dublin, Uninest, Aparto and Athlone Student Rooms – to look at ways they can support students who have paid thousands of euro for […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland teams up with UPLIFT to call for signatories to open letter demanding student rent refunds

USI criticises TTIP for being fundamentally Anti-democratic and Toxic to European Societies

[…]Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) today, calling them fundamentally anti-democratic and toxic to European societies. TTIP is a number of trade negotiations taking place mostly confidentially between Europe and the US. TTIP’s bi-lateral trade agreement is to break or reduce the regulatory trade barriers for large corporations, such as food safety law, environmental legislation and the sovereign powers of individual nations can potentially be hugely compromised. The Union of Students in Ireland said there are six key areas of Irish, and indeed European, societies that can be warped because of TTIP, including the HSE, food safety, environmental preservation, privacy, employment […]
Read more » USI criticises TTIP for being fundamentally Anti-democratic and Toxic to European Societies

USI criticises TTIP for being fundamentally Anti-democratic and Toxic to European Societies

[…]Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) today, calling them fundamentally anti-democratic and toxic to European societies. TTIP is a number of trade negotiations taking place mostly confidentially between Europe and the US. TTIP’s bi-lateral trade agreement is to break or reduce the regulatory trade barriers for large corporations, such as food safety law, environmental legislation and the sovereign powers of individual nations can potentially be hugely compromised. The Union of Students in Ireland said there are six key areas of Irish, and indeed European, societies that can be warped because of TTIP, including the HSE, food safety, environmental preservation, privacy, employment […]
Read more » USI criticises TTIP for being fundamentally Anti-democratic and Toxic to European Societies

USI Welcomes New Report to Reduce Gender Inequality in Higher Education

[…]outcomes of the report is funding being withheld from higher education institutions if they fail to address gender inequality in the coming years. “The lack of women in senior positions in higher education institutions is not because they do not have the talent, ability or drive to fulfil these roles.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “It’s because multiple factors within third level institutions mean women face obstacles that men don’t. This report shows that talent, ability or drive is not enough to secure professional promotion or advancement. USI welcomes the recommendations of the report which recognise that productivity can’t be […]
Read more » USI Welcomes New Report to Reduce Gender Inequality in Higher Education

Congress 2017 – Get Ready

[…]to Congress should check out our info page: I want my issues to be discussed You have a motion to submit to USI Congress?  That’s good.  Find out how to make it happen, here: It’s confirmed that I’m taking part To see what we’ll be debating at Congress and see where we are in the motions process, check out the Congress Documents […]

Elections 2022 now open

[…]President for Equality and Citizenship: Policy officer with responsibility for anything related to the areas of Equality and Citizenship and has the main responsibility for Equality and Citizenship policy and publications. Lead organiser of Equality events; Pink Training, Women Lead, EMpower, the Conference for Students with Disabilities, the Mature Students’ Seminar. With the Vice President for Campaigns, runs Equality related campaigns such as Voter registration and Disability awareness. Sits on the Board of AHEAD Ireland and ICOS (Irish Council for International Students) Chairs the Equality and Citizenship working group at National Council. Co-chairs of the USI/AHEAD Students with Disabilities advisory […]

USI tenders wide-ranging submission to Government review of SUSI

[…]we have outlined the need for change in numerous areas to bring these important supports up to date and to the level required in order to open access to third-level education to as many people as possible for the benefit of society, our citizens and the economy.” The situation facing the many students who have also found themselves in receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment because of income lost during the COVID-19 pandemic is also highlighted in the submission. It is USI’s understanding that this payment is currently being treated as reckonable income. USI believes that this payment should be […]
Read more » USI tenders wide-ranging submission to Government review of SUSI

Introducing the new USI Officer Board 2014/15

[…]year as part of the USI Officer Board 2014/15 is: USI Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance; Kevin Donoghue. USI Vice President for Welfare; Greg O’ Donoghue. USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship; Annie Hoey. USI Vice President for Campaigns; Glenn Fitzpatrick. Leas Uachtarán Gaeilge/USI Vice President for Irish Language; Feidhlim Seoighe. USI Vice President for Southern Region; Martin Lynch. USI Vice President for BMW (Border, Midlands and Western) Region; Conor Stitt. NUS USI President; Rebecca Hall. For more information contact USI Communications and Research Executive Gráinne O Reilly on […]
Read more » Introducing the new USI Officer Board 2014/15

Mental Health Funding

[…]with Mental Health Reform, propose the Government invest in mental health supports and services to allow them to adequately develop. Costing: €37.5m Responsibility: Department of […]

USI welcomes the announcement today that Deputy Joe McHugh will be taking over the position of Minister for Education and Skills.

[…]a higher education system which we need to support student success, promote access, and produce top quality graduates. The system is underfunded and students face the burden – at €3,000 per annum, students are already paying the second highest fees in Europe. It’s clear the government must act, and invest meaningfully in the present and the future of this country before it’s too late. Síona Cahill President Union of Students in […]
Read more » USI welcomes the announcement today that Deputy Joe McHugh will be taking over the position of Minister for Education and Skills.

Union of Students in Ireland expresses frustration as students ignored in Budget 2019 “We’ll see this Government at the ballot box.”

[…]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 is affordable and of high quality. Responding to the Budget announcement, President of USI, Síona Cahill said “Our students continue to face the second highest fees in Europe, haven’t seen any grant increases since they were cut during austerity years, and now face an unprecedented […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland expresses frustration as students ignored in Budget 2019 “We’ll see this Government at the ballot box.”

Vacancy: National Student Engagement Programme Manager

[…]analysis workshops in which senior leaders, staff, and students of Irish HEIs have come together to examine student engagement practice and experiences within their setting. Identification and sharing of best practice approaches across a range of activities. Since its launch, the NStEP participants have come together to examine 5 significant thematic areas, through projects chaired jointly by HEI staff and students’ union representatives. The NStEP network, launched in 2017, provides a space for best practice approaches to be shared. To Apply: Download the NStEP Job Spec Released Application Form and follow the instructions in the document. [bctt tweet=”Check out this Programme […]
Read more » Vacancy: National Student Engagement Programme Manager

Joint Call on HE Funding Crisis

[…]a higher education system which we need to support student success, promote access, and produce top quality graduates. The system is underfunded and students face the burden – at €3,000 per annum, students are already paying the second highest fees in Europe. It’s clear the government must act, and invest meaningfully in the present and the future of this country before it’s too late.” Joan Donegan, General Secretary of IFUT said: “Funding for third level students is now at less than half of what it was a decade ago. This is resulting in serious understaffing, overcrowded classrooms and an overall deterioration in studying conditions […]

USI Statement on LSE Occupation

[…]that students and staff in higher education right across the continent now have a central role to play in saving a public good and no less so here in […]

The role of students in 1916 compared to the role of students today

[…]from Ireland’s far flung youth supporting same-same marriage, and getting planes, trains and automobiles to have their vote, and their voice, heard. The power and weight of the young vote was undeniable and written into Irish history when it reformed the justice system – now, same-sex marriage is legal. We have 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 […]
Read more » The role of students in 1916 compared to the role of students today

Lorna Fitzpatrick Elected President of the Union of Students in Ireland, 2019/2020

[…]put their trust in me to lead this movement. I have said all throughout my campaign that we need to be strong and connected to win the fight that we face this year and im looking forward to leading our movement through that. We are facing issues such as accommodation, access to higher education, higher education funding, ending direct provision, climate change, social justice issues in Northern Ireland alongside Irish language rights. I thank everyone who supported my campaign and am ecstatic to be the next President for the Union of Students in Ireland.” This role was contested by one […]
Read more » Lorna Fitzpatrick Elected President of the Union of Students in Ireland, 2019/2020

Annie Hoey elected to lead USI

[…]who voted for me – my goal for the year is to lead a united student movement who will come together to tackle issues like funding of and access to higher and further education, quality of courses and fairness in our society. I’m committed to putting equality and social inclusion at the heart of our agenda for the year ahead – working constructively but critically with whichever government eventually emerges to make sure the student voice is not just loud and united, but heard and respected. I want to pay tribute to Kevin Donoghue, the president whose shoes I will have […]

Union of Students in Ireland welcomes scrapping of Green Paper on Disability Reform, hard fought for by disability activists

[…]in order to decided what support they should get. We also join calls for the Disability Allowance to be increased to cover the cost-of-living in Ireland, as it currently falls completely short of […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland welcomes scrapping of Green Paper on Disability Reform, hard fought for by disability activists

Congress 2015 E-Clár

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 […]

New Officer Board for USI

[…]Seoighe moves from the position of Vice President for the Irish Language (where he served for two terms) to that of Vice President for the Border, Midlands and Western Region. Cian Power Vice President for the Southern Region Name Twitter Email Home SU Cian Power @USI_South cian.power@usi.ie UCCSU USI Vice President for Southern Region is Cian Power. Previously, Cian served as Welfare Officer at University, College Cork SU. Aedraen Ó Dubhghaill Leas-Uachtarán don Gaeilge Name Twitter Email Home SU Aedraen Ó Dubhghaill aedraen.odubhghaill@usi.ie MSU Aedraen is the Vice President for the Irish Language / Leas Uachtarán don Gaeilge.  He studies at NUI, […]

USI laments continued application of absurd BAI ‘Mooney ruling’.

[…]than equality. USI worries that the ruling of the BAI could hand the power of veto and censorship to those opposed to equal marriage – by simply operating as a cartel to refuse appearances, anti-equality organisations could prevent the arguments for equal marriage even being heard, let alone debated. This ruling places unncessary restrictions on the right of individuals to express their opinion in the absence of someone who disagrees with them. In this case, someone cannot argue for equal treatment because there is no-one to speak in favour of inequality. Our call is for the BAI to see the […]
Read more » USI laments continued application of absurd BAI ‘Mooney ruling’.

Win tickets to see the Strypes this Thursday!

[…]and we won’t give them away.  We won’t share your details with any company, and any details stored in our system will be deleted soon after when we’ve made the draw.  As with all USI competitions, no purchase is necessary to enter. We’ll put all the names of entrants into a spreadsheet and draw one individual entry with the help of a random number generator at Random.org and contact that individual to ensure that: they are an eligible student and they want the prize. Then we’ll arrange for the prize to either be collected at USI HQ in Dublin, collected at a […]
Read more » Win tickets to see the Strypes this Thursday!

Rents refund for after May 2 too late – USI President

[…]who have already been out of their accommodation for over a month. Student accommodation operator, Aparto, has offered to refund students for rent paid for the period after May 2, despite many having to leave when colleges closed in early March. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said the refunds should be backdated to when the students had to leave the accommodation due to the unprecedented actions taken to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Aparto has also stated it will charge students a €50 cleaning fee. On this, Lorna said: “It’s extremely disappointing to see such a fee imposed on students, given the circumstances […]
Read more » Rents refund for after May 2 too late – USI President

USI Writes To 8th Committee

[…]women’s and girls’ access to safe abortion in Ireland, in line with global and European good practice. USI is clearly asking representatives to consider the ​recommendations as Oireachtas members submit their amendments this week.​   […]

USI launches SHAG campaign “Whoever you like, love safer sex”

[…]and lifestyle”. Riona Durkan, Brand Manager of Durex Ireland: “Every student has the right to good sexual health and good sexual health education. As condoms are the only form of contraception that can protect against both pregnancy and STIs, we want people to feel comfortable using and talking about them. At Durex, we are committed to raising awareness of sexual health education and the importance of safer sex, which is why we are delighted to support the USI with such an important campaign.” Organisations supporting the campaign: Durex MSD Think Contraception IFPA (Irish family planning association) Dublin Aids Alliance Crisis […]
Read more » USI launches SHAG campaign “Whoever you like, love safer sex”

USI Warns Students of Rental Scams Ahead of Accommodation Rush

[…]Union right away. It is always better to be safe. Don’t rush into any arrangement that looks too good to be true.” The union is also advising students not to hand over money until they receive they keys, and the tenancy begins. Websites like Daft.ie are useful for renting, Students’ Union Facebook groups or free websites like homes.usi.ie for digs can be a reliable source to find accommodation […]
Read more » USI Warns Students of Rental Scams Ahead of Accommodation Rush

This Week in USI March 27th – April 7th, 2017

[…]difficulty. The Vice President for Welfare attended the Portlaoise Credit Union parents night to talk to parents and students about 3rd level, SUSI and accommodation. The Vice President for the Southern Region chaired election proceedings for IT Tralee Students’ Union elections. Campaign Spotlight: Launch of the #ItStopsNow The Union of Students in Ireland are proud lead partners with the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) #ItStopsNow project. ​The Vice President for Equality & Citizenship spoke at the Irish launch of the project in the Law Society, Dublin on Tuesday 5th of April.​ Our EU partners include the ​Mediterranean Institute of Gender […]
Read more » This Week in USI March 27th – April 7th, 2017

Get Registered Before May 8th

[…]even consider reading on, or printing off or scribbling on any RFA1 or RFA-whats-it forms get onto www.checktheregister.ie and check if you are registered to vote or if you are, if you are still on the register and where you are able to vote. Got it? Right. Carry on then. In order to vote in an election or referendum in Ireland, you must be registered to vote. So You’re Not Registered? For inclusion in the Register of Electors you must complete an application form RFA. So You Need Correction of Details If you are on the draft Register of Electors but your details […]

Get Registered Before May 8th

[…]even consider reading on, or printing off or scribbling on any RFA1 or RFA-whats-it forms get onto www.checktheregister.ie and check if you are registered to vote or if you are, if you are still on the register and where you are able to vote. Got it? Right. Carry on then. In order to vote in an election or referendum in Ireland, you must be registered to vote. So You’re Not Registered? For inclusion in the Register of Electors you must complete an application form RFA. So You Need Correction of Details If you are on the draft Register of Electors but your details […]

The Week in USI – 15th to 20th January

[…] Nominations for the USI officer board elections are open as of this week. For information as to how to participate, click here. We’re also reviewing our constitution and want to hear what our members think. More information available here.   Policy areas:   Academic Affairs Organising the 33rd European Students’ Convention. The bi-annual conference will take place in NUI Galway from 6th to 8th March with student leaders from all across Europe, exploring access to education and the consequences for higher education of Brexit; Reviewing the QA guidelines for research degrees prepared by Quality and Qualifications Ireland; Assisting the […]

USI Welcomes the Strategy for the Rental Sector

[…]will have to continue to search for new jobs and, distracted from their courses, earn money to be able to make up the continuously increasing rent.’ continues Hoey. According to Q3 2016 Daft.ie report, rents in Galway are now at 14% above their 2008 peak, which marks ‘a bigger increase than any market in Dublin’. Although USI would urge the Government to immediately introduce the so-called rent predictability measures we would like to emphasise the need of extending it to other locations, where students are at the risk of high rent increases (e.g. Galway, Limerick). Furthermore, USI acknowledges the supportive […]
Read more » USI Welcomes the Strategy for the Rental Sector

USI Welcomes the Strategy for the Rental Sector

[…]will have to continue to search for new jobs and, distracted from their courses, earn money to be able to make up the continuously increasing rent.’ continues Hoey. According to Q3 2016 Daft.ie report, rents in Galway are now at 14% above their 2008 peak, which marks ‘a bigger increase than any market in Dublin’. Although USI would urge the Government to immediately introduce the so-called rent predictability measures we would like to emphasise the need of extending it to other locations, where students are at the risk of high rent increases (e.g. Galway, Limerick). Furthermore, USI acknowledges the supportive […]
Read more » USI Welcomes the Strategy for the Rental Sector

Advocacy Groups call for JobBridge to be phased out.

[…]on the question the governments real intent: “If the government’s actual intention was to provide quality training it would not be raising fees, cutting grants and introducing apprenticeship fees year on year. When seen with the recent devastating cut to young people’s welfare, we see these tactics as part of a concerted effort by the government – who do not have a jobs strategy or any intention of dealing with the youth crisis – as a means of driving down living conditions for the next generation of workers. And as a means of inducing for what is for tens of […]
Read more » Advocacy Groups call for JobBridge to be phased out.

USI Congress 2014 Elects Laura Harmon as the new USI President.

[…]and for a living wage to be introduced in this country so that people can work to live as opposed to work to survive.  USI will continue to work with trade unions and organisations that have similar values to achieve our collective goals. USI has turned a corner and it is my intention to assert the student voice at the forefront of social justice and social change.  We have a proud history on campaigning for equality and we cannot afford to be an insular organisation. We will continue to take a holistic approach in how we represent our members both […]
Read more » USI Congress 2014 Elects Laura Harmon as the new USI President.

4MentalHealth – Local Elections 2014

[…]homelessness. 4. Passing a Council resolution stating that in its work, the Council will seek to promote mental health and well-being among the whole local population. To get involved and join the campaign click here Join the conversation: […]

Union Organisation

[…]make themselves available to MO’s for governance support, such as: assistance with integration into Quality Assurance structures; increasing representation on key decision making bodies and setting a high standard of constitutionality and democracy. Congress further mandates: That Officer Board produce a preliminary report on good practice for Students’ Union governance in advance of the National Council meeting in August.   14 UO 13      SUSI TRAINING Congress notes: That SUSI has improved its processing system this year but yet still some students are still finding it difficult, to understand some of the documentation required for their grant to be accessed. Unlike […]

Voter Registration

Do you know if you are registered to vote? Log on to  www.checktheregister.ie to see if you’re registered to vote!  If not, we have you covered with all the information you need here.  In order to vote in an election or referendum in Ireland, you must be registered to vote. So You’re Not Registered? For inclusion in the Register of Electors you must complete an application form RFA. Find the form here . So You Need Correction of Details? If you are on the draft Register of Electors but your details are incorrect you may claim to have a correction made by completing an application form RFA1. […]

USI Votes for new Officer Board

[…]College Cork Students’ Union laura.harmon@usi.ie Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance Cat O’Driscoll Member Union when first elected: University College Cork Students’ Union cat.odriscoll@usi.ie Vice President for Welfare Denise McCarthy Member Union when first elected: Waterford Institute of Technology Students’ Union denise.mccarthy@usi.ie Leas Uachtarán don Ghaeilge /Vice President for the Irish Language Peadar de Blúit Member College when first elected: Trinity College, Dublin Students’ Union peadar.debluit@usi.ie Vice President for the Border, Midlands and West Region Breffni Gorman Member Union when first elected: Institute of Technology, Sligo Students’ Union breffni.gorman@usi.ie Vice President for the Southern Region Michael Thompson Member Union when first elected: […]

Chats for Change Campaign Launched to Help Students Feeling Down

[…]Change campaign aims to change the stigma around mental health and encourage anyone feeling down to get into the habit of talking about it.”   Chats for Change Survey Results   If you’re feeling down does talking to someone help? Yes 82.6% No 17.4%   Who would you talk to if you’re feeling down? Friend 60.2% Family 21.2% SU officer 3.5% Other 15.0%   How often would you feel down? Once an hour 6.1% Once a day 36.5% Once a week 35.7% Once a month 12.2% More 5.2% Less 4.3%   What do you usually do if you’re feeling down? […]
Read more » Chats for Change Campaign Launched to Help Students Feeling Down

homes.usi.ie Celebrates!

[…]communities.   A Daft report published yesterday showed just 4,600 properties were available to rent on August 1, compared to 6,800 on the same day last year and 23,000 properties on the same date six years ago.   Mr Donoghue said the fall in available accommodation was forcing students to commute longer and longer distances and, in some cases, choose their course based on whether they would be able to find and afford accommodation.   He pointed to figures from the Irish League of Credit Unions, which found 62% of students are living at home compared to 44% in 2013. […]

USI Newsletters

[…]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 […]

Union of Students in Ireland statement

[…]USI is again reiterating its calls for higher education institutions and Government to work together to play their part in reducing the risk of events like this happening by ensuring students can get out of contracts and get refunds for accommodation. It is not good enough to ask students not to go back to campuses, live in student accommodation or mix with other students, but not support them in this by ensuring they are not out of pocket for doing so. USI is calling on Government to show its support and regard for students by passing our Student Accommodation Bill and proving […]

Union of Students in Ireland statement on Limerick

[…]USI is again reiterating its calls for higher education institutions and Government to work together to play their part in reducing the risk of events like this happening by ensuring students can get out of contracts and get refunds for accommodation. It is not good enough to ask students not to go back to campuses, live in student accommodation or mix with other students, but not support them in this by ensuring they are not out of pocket for doing so. USI is calling on Government to show its support and regard for students by passing our Student Accommodation Bill and proving […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland statement on Limerick

NStEP Recruiting Development Co-ordinator

[…]is underpinned by the principle of “student as partner”. Role The Development Coordinator will work to support and expand the NStEP Student Training Programme, to identify and develop resources for students and staff to ensure the successful implementation of the programme strategy, work to enhance communications, and to support the Programme Manager in day-to-day operations.Please see the full job specification and information on applying here. More information about NStEP is available at http://studentengagement.ie Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Wednesday 15th January 2020.More information is available in the PDF below. Applying Please submit your CV with a cover letter […]

USI Opening Statement in Joint Oireachtas Committee on Research and Innovation Bill 2023

[…]scholarship, as well as applied research.   We need a system that allows all stakeholders to come together across STEM subjects, the humanities, arts and social sciences, to drive a research ecosystem which is better, more equitable and more accountable to all stakeholders and not just a few in power. We have strong concerns that the Bill does not adequately protect academic autonomy, parity of esteem and the working conditions of researchers and open research. USI recommends amending the Bill to include an independent review and evaluation of the work of the research and innovation agency every five years, with regular […]
Read more » USI Opening Statement in Joint Oireachtas Committee on Research and Innovation Bill 2023

USI-IRC Why Research Matters video competition 2022 winners announced

[…]project focuses on the medicinal properties of Irish seaweeds. Ailbhe’s research is important to protect against a future where ‘superbugs’ (bacteria which have evolved to survive all antibiotic medicines) will be a huge danger for humans.  Ailbhe McGurrin | #WHYRESEARCHMATTERS | USI-IRC Video Competition  Antonia Egli, a PhD researcher at the Dublin City University Business School, has been awarded the ‘Most Creative’ prize. This prize is awarded to a researcher who has demonstrated exceptional creative ability in presenting their research. Antonia’s project examines the vaccine-related stigma expressed online and its implications on the intention to vaccinate amongst hesitant users. This […]
Read more » USI-IRC Why Research Matters video competition 2022 winners announced

Athlone Town Council Request Quinn to Protect Maintenance Grant

[…]than just financial in nature, it places serious pressure on students and their families. It is good to know that our local representatives are aware of this and support measures to do something about it.” The USI (Union of Students in Ireland) have continuously called on the Government and Minister Quinn to make sure the cost of college does not rise further when they make upcoming Budgetary decisions. Kevin Donoghue Vice President of the Border, Midlands and Western Region of USI said: “It is a tremendous boost to our campaign to have the support of the Athlone Town Council, we […]
Read more » Athlone Town Council Request Quinn to Protect Maintenance Grant

USI warns of growing sense of despair among Ireland’s youth as CSO reveals 39% unemployment rate for 15-24 year olds

[…]be a better country for the next generation or will they be the first generation in Irish history to have a worse quality of life than their parents. If the answer is the former, we have an opportunity amid crisis to prioritise the most vulnerable at their time of need. Today, I challenge the government to combat the problem of youth unemployment and rebuild the smart economy from the ground up.” -ENDS- For more information, contact USI Media and Communications Executive, Ronan Costello, on 085-1164263 or email at […]
Read more » USI warns of growing sense of despair among Ireland’s youth as CSO reveals 39% unemployment rate for 15-24 year olds

Why Research Matters – Competition Now Open

[…]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 the value of what you do and how it may someday advance knowledge and change lives? This call opens on June […]
Read more » Why Research Matters – Competition Now Open

USI supports DCU Students’ Union #SaveOurShepherd Campaign.

[…]their studies is unjust, pulling a man from a country where he calls home only to be sent back to where he courageously left due to life threatening circumstances is barbaric and downright immoral. “The national student movement stands behind Shepherd and will be actively campaigning on his behalf alongside DCU Students’ Union to keep him in Ireland. Shepherd Machaya has been a positive influence in Irish society since his arrival, entering Higher Education through the University of Sanctuary scheme for refugees in order to better his quality of life. He must be allowed to stay on this island. Save […]
Read more » USI supports DCU Students’ Union #SaveOurShepherd Campaign.

USI Makes Submission to the Strategy for the Rented Sector

[…]said. “Policy-makers need to look at the needs of various groups of stakeholders and restore the sense of stability both in terms of affordability and availability of housing for all. Without adequate protection of the right to accommodation for students, we will sentence Ireland to socio-economic stagnation.”   The Strategy for the Rented Sector will be built upon four pillars: security, supply, standard and service. USI proposes in the submission to include the following actions in the rental strategy.   Security: Exploring the feasibility of introducing necessary amendments to legislation to ensure the right to adequate housing for everyone, regardless […]
Read more » USI Makes Submission to the Strategy for the Rented Sector

Ciarán McKeown

[…]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 […]

Pre-Budget Submission

[…]back” and is “in recovery”, but that has not been the reality of a tertiary education sector, vital to societal and economic growth – left on a cliff edge. Access to education also means access to suitable and affordable accommodation while studying. You may be forgiven for thinking that there is plenty of rooms being built, however that is not the case. What is in fact luxury student accommodation being developed can cost upwards of €1,000 per month. This is not acceptable. It is not what students or their families want or can afford, and is severely restricting access for […]

Hiring: Student Housing Project Executive

[…]funding which is currently in place. Additional Hours The post holder will also be required to work occasional evenings and weekends to meet organisational objectives with a flexible time-off in lieu system in operation. Background to USI USI is the national representative body for 354,000 students in third-level education on the Island of Ireland. We are a membership organisation – our members are our affiliated Students’  Unions around Ireland, North and South. USI is a democratic organisation. The supreme authority  of the Union is the Congress, which is representative of each affiliated students’ union, apportioned  according to the size of the student […]

USI Elections Nomination Dates Released

[…]for the attention of Elections Committee or by emailing a scanned copy of the nomination form to elections@usi.ie. Candidates are required to submit documentation proving their membership of USI prior to the close of nominations. USI OFFICERSHIP TERMS & CONDITIONS 2014-2015 In accordance with the USI Constitution candidates are required to confirm their acceptance of the USI Officership Terms & Conditions 2014-2015 set by Finance Committee in advance of the elections which occur at Annual Congress 2014. TIMETABLE AND DEADLINES  Thursday 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, […]

Nominations open for USI Officer Board positions

[…]for the attention of Elections Committee or by emailing a scanned copy of the nomination form to elections@usi.ie Candidates are required to submit documentation proving their membership of USI prior to the close of nominations. USI Officership Terms & Conditions 2015-2016 In accordance with the USI Constitution candidates are required to confirm their acceptance of the USI Officership Terms & Conditions 2015-2016 set by Finance Committee in advance of the elections which occur at Annual Congress 2015. Timetable and Deadlines Friday 16th January 2015, 9.00am           Open of Nominations for Elections.   Thursday 12th February 2015, 5.00pm Close of Submission […]
Read more » Nominations open for USI Officer Board positions

Students have no confidence in this Government and Taoiseach’s resignation should trigger general election

[…]demands that we need to see happen immediately and while politicians might think young people are too lazy to vote, we will prove them wrong at the next general election, if action is not taken. A lack of action on these issues will directly impact how USI campaigns in the next general election and our message to this Government is loud and clear: Change or be changed. USI’s 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 […]
Read more » Students have no confidence in this Government and Taoiseach’s resignation should trigger general election

Thousands of students left abandoned due to Government’s failure to tackle “worse than ever” student accommodation crisis

[…]Unions are reporting to USI that they are working with hundreds of students who feel they have nowhere left to go in their search for accommodation this year. USI and students across Ireland are outraged at the Government’s inability to tackle the housing crisis, which is having a huge impact on many students’ ability to access third-level education. One Students’ Union reported to USI that it has been receiving over 100 requests a day for help on its dedicated student accommodation Facebook page, while most SUs have received hundreds of phone calls and emails over the last few weeks. USI President, Clare […]
Read more » Thousands of students left abandoned due to Government’s failure to tackle “worse than ever” student accommodation crisis

USI Backs Limerick Student’s Consent Campaign

[…]sexually active look after their own sexual health, and be respectful of others. USI is proud to support this campaign, and look forward to collaborating with LSAD and LIT students in the future.” LSAD students and designers of the campaign, Sarah Egan and Hazel Curtis, said: “Making this campaign has been all about using our creative skills for a good cause,if one person sees this campaign and changes their mindset on consent,then we’ve succeeded as designers.” LIT Students’ Union President, Philip Desmond, said: “A massive congratulations to Hazel Curtis and Sarah Egan for designing and developing such a phenomenal consent […]
Read more » USI Backs Limerick Student’s Consent Campaign

USI Backs Limerick Student’s Consent Campaign

[…]sexually active look after their own sexual health, and be respectful of others. USI is proud to support this campaign, and look forward to collaborating with LSAD and LIT students in the future.” LSAD students and designers of the campaign, Sarah Egan and Hazel Curtis, said: “Making this campaign has been all about using our creative skills for a good cause,if one person sees this campaign and changes their mindset on consent,then we’ve succeeded as designers.” LIT Students’ Union President, Philip Desmond, said: “A massive congratulations to Hazel Curtis and Sarah Egan for designing and developing such a phenomenal consent […]
Read more » USI Backs Limerick Student’s Consent Campaign

Student Teachers Placement Report Launched

[…]report stating, “The escalating costs for student teachers on placement is a matter of concern to the INTO. While school placement is an integral part of initial teacher education, additional time spent in schools needs to be accompanied by support for student teachers to compensate for expenses such as transport, clothing, classroom resources and materials and loss of part time earnings while on placement. Without government action on this there is a very real fear that success in school placement could become a factor of ability to pay rather than ability to teach. The INTO welcomes the USI Report which […]

Deferral period ban on giving blood for men who have sex with men should be abolished after moves by Northern Ireland

[…]blood donor selection criteria. “The IBTS has set strict guidelines for those who are eligible to donate to ensure that all donations are safe to use and to protect donors and recipients. And so, eligibility decided on sexuality is extremely discriminatory and no one should be denied the right to donate blood based on their sexuality.” The latest USI motion, passed in 2019, mandated that: “The VP Equality and Citizenship campaign for the abolishment of the deferral period to ensure that MSM who meet all other eligibility criteria will be eligible to donate blood in […]
Read more » Deferral period ban on giving blood for men who have sex with men should be abolished after moves by Northern Ireland

The Week in USI Feb 18th – 24th, 2017

[…]and prompted Students’ Unions to show support at the picket lines. Here’s a list of stores on strike: https://tescoworkers.com/strikes/ USI lobbied TDs, Ministers and Senators about publicly-funded higher education. Assisted National Forum in a scoping group on the relationship between research and teaching and learning in an Open Access environment. ​We encouraged graduates from NUI colleges and TCD to ensure that they were registered on the Seanad Electoral Register. We will continue to lobby for Seanad reform when it comes to voting, as many of our members are not represented. USI met with ICTU Youth and reps from the INTO and ASTI […]

USI Support IT Tallaght SU Sit-In

[…]work as equal partners with their college, acting as critical allies, and enable the college to develop strong quality and governance processes.  In order for Students’ Unions to develop, they need resources and support.  Dedicated, highly skilled staff who are accountable to the Union are fundamental to development. ITTSU are staging a sit in protest to highlight the Students’ Union’s need for a secretary. Without a full time staff position, the union is without a pillar of support and is resulting in the disruption of Students’ Union services and the closure of the building when officers are absent. Since the […]

USI Support IT Tallaght SU Sit-In

[…]work as equal partners with their college, acting as critical allies, and enable the college to develop strong quality and governance processes.  In order for Students’ Unions to develop, they need resources and support.  Dedicated, highly skilled staff who are accountable to the Union are fundamental to development. ITTSU are staging a sit in protest to highlight the Students’ Union’s need for a secretary. Without a full time staff position, the union is without a pillar of support and is resulting in the disruption of Students’ Union services and the closure of the building when officers are absent. Since the […]

The Union of Students in Ireland Stands in Solidarity with the Teachers’ Union of Ireland on their Strike over Underfunding

[…]now face larger class sizes, reduced access to laboratories and libraries and sharp cuts to tutorials and other student supports.” USI is also stressing that the cuts to support services means more vulnerable students are at a higher risk of dropping out of […]
Read more » The Union of Students in Ireland Stands in Solidarity with the Teachers’ Union of Ireland on their Strike over Underfunding

Statement on social care student placements

[…]this form and share your stories as a social care student Contact your TDs and senators and urge them to raise this matter with Ministers Simon Harris & Stephen Donnelly and call for immediate action Students have been a pivotal part of the frontline efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and social care students are no different in this respect. The lack of ownership over the issues these students are facing is resulting in increased anxiety and stress, and all stakeholders must engage urgently with students and their representatives on these issues. They care for us, so it’s vital that we […]

Castlebar Community Engagement Day

[…]of the local representatives to join us on Saturday and we are hopeful of getting the year off to a good start.” Joe O’Connor, USI President said: “Students play a vital role in the local community in Castlebar and in communities right across the country. The results of the recent Irish League of Credit Unions study have shown the importance of issues like the cost of college and student supports to not only students but to parents and families also. That is why it is important that our ‘Fight for Your Future Now’ campaign engages not only students, but their […]

Personal Safety – Keeping yourself safe

[…]also advertise that you have something worth stealing. If you think you’re being followed, go to somewhere busy and flag down a taxi. Always make sure someone knows when you’re going out, if and when you’re coming back, and whom you’ll be with. When you’re on your way home, let someone know when to expect you. Only use licensed taxis and hackneys. Take note of the taxi licence number and key it into your phone or text it to a friend. When you arrive at your destination ask the driver to wait until you get inside the door before leaving […]

Welfare Policy

[…]injecting heroin. Congress Believes There is a need for health professionals, parents and educators to acknowledge the fact that young people often engage in drug use, and at the very least will be exposed to drug use at some point in their lives. Drug use cannot be tackled by policy measures which are only aimed at controlling the supply of drugs. It is futile to only have supply reduction strategies in place of more cost-effective and evidence based investments in harm- reduction and education. Congress Mandates The Coiste Gnó to lobby for the decriminalisation of drugs in line with the […]

National campus climate survey of university students’ experiences reveal high levels of sexual violence and harassment

[…]while only 16 per cent, again who had an experience, said they had received information on where to get help from their institution and only just under 10 per cent said they knew how to report an incident. These are areas that can be addressed very quickly by Higher Institutions and that needs to be one of the on-campus actions taken as a result of these survey findings.” Dr Pádraig MacNeela, Senior Lecturer in Psychology in NUI Galway, report co-author and Active* Consent programme leader said: “The SES survey findings provide a stark depiction of the experiences that many students […]
Read more » National campus climate survey of university students’ experiences reveal high levels of sexual violence and harassment

USI Launches Pre-Budget Submission Ahead of Budget 2020

[…]leaders speak to upwards of 145 TD’s and Senators on what funding needs to be made available to the sectors that affect students.   USI President Síona Cahill and President-Elect Lorna Fitzpatrick spoke on the Pre-Budget Submission stating: “Following Brexit, students in Ireland will be forced to pay the highest third level fees in the EU. Accommodation costs and the cost of living has soared, while financial support available for students has remained stagnant – these issues are connected and are placing students and their families in extremely challenging financial situations. Students and their families suffered years of austerity and […]
Read more » USI Launches Pre-Budget Submission Ahead of Budget 2020

USI Welcome the Re-Introduction of Postgraduate Grants and Encourage Students to Apply Early

[…]category. USI President Annie Hoey also called on both undergraduate and postgraduate students to apply early for their grants to avoid delays next year. “Now that the application process is open students 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 […]
Read more » USI Welcome the Re-Introduction of Postgraduate Grants and Encourage Students to Apply Early

Vacancy: Communications & PR Manager

[…]or willingness to learn and use the Irish language Starting Soon The candidate will be expected to start as close to the interview date as possible. About USI USI is the national representative body for the 354,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland.  We are a membership organisation – our members are our affiliated Students’ Unions around Ireland, North and South. 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 recruitment@usi.ie […]

Vacancy: Communications & PR Manager

[…]or willingness to learn and use the Irish language Starting Soon The candidate will be expected to start as close to the interview date as possible. About USI USI is the national representative body for the 354,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland.  We are a membership organisation – our members are our affiliated Students’ Unions around Ireland, North and South. 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 recruitment@usi.ie […]

Budget 2015 Response

[…]the apparent protection of the Back to Education Allowance which allows for mature students to return to college to develop skills. Speaking immediately after the budget speeches, Laura Harmon, President of USI said: “We’re glad that students reliant on the Back to Education Allowance and Student Maintenance Grant won’t experience further cuts, and we’re pleased that the money withheld from the third level system for two years is being returned. These provisions were key to our pre-budget asks. In addition, the rebalancing of the grant will make things easier for students in the difficult first semester of study – showing […]

USI Slams Increase In Trinity College Dublin Post-Graduate And International Student Fees

[…]pay for their education no matter the burden. We are more than a commercial entity, and if we want to be a top institution of learning, we must not lose sight of that.” President of the Graduate Students’ Union at Trinity, Shane Collins, said that ‘The level of increase at 5% for multi-year students is something we cannot accept. We will continue to work with internal and external bodies on this matter, but aside from the gaping hole in higher education funding, there is absolutely no other justification to students for this. Postgraduates did not create this mess, yet for […]
Read more » USI Slams Increase In Trinity College Dublin Post-Graduate And International Student Fees

Urgent action required for student renters as COVID-19 measures step-up

[…]Institutions and accommodation providers must provide flexible provisions for students. It is not good enough to require students to enter standard agreements – this is not a standard year.” The USI is also calling on colleges and universities affected by the new public health measures to support students in every way they can by facilitating access to vital on-campus services, where possible. The union is also asking students to watch out for each other as we face into another uncertain period. Lorna said: “Students feeling isolated is a real concern for us. We know the impact it has on our […]
Read more » Urgent action required for student renters as COVID-19 measures step-up

Urgent action required for student renters as COVID-19 measures step-up

[…]Institutions and accommodation providers must provide flexible provisions for students. It is not good enough to require students to enter standard agreements – this is not a standard year.” The USI is also calling on colleges and universities affected by the new public health measures to support students in every way they can by facilitating access to vital on-campus services, where possible. The union is also asking students to watch out for each other as we face into another uncertain period. Lorna said: “Students feeling isolated is a real concern for us. We know the impact it has on our […]
Read more » Urgent action required for student renters as COVID-19 measures step-up

Alcohol Awareness Toolkit launched by drinkaware.ie and USI

[…]although there’s a wealth of information available on the subject, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With this toolkit, we aim to make the process easier by guiding people through the steps required to create a really effective activity for their peers. We hope that this will become a valuable resource for any college looking to promote responsible drinking among students.” Denise McCarthy, USI Vice President for Welfare said: “Alcohol awareness campaigns are essential to promotion of good mental health. While awareness now exists of the problems that can arise from excessive alcohol consumption, binge drinking is […]
Read more » Alcohol Awareness Toolkit launched by drinkaware.ie and USI

Colleges must support students as public health restrictions are increased during busy exam and assessment period

[…]We know nobody wants to see young people under that much pressure and stress and so everyone needs to work together to ensure that what can be done to alleviate the situation is being […]
Read more » Colleges must support students as public health restrictions are increased during busy exam and assessment period

Why Research Matters – Video Presentation Competition

[…]The goal is to put the creative minds of the island’s postgraduate research community to work to produce a short video presentation about your research, and why it matters. While we all remain at home it can be difficult to maintain the same level of continuity with our work, so why not remind yourselves and the country about the value of what you do and how it may someday advance knowledge and change lives? This call opens on June 1, 2020 and will remain open for two-and-a-half weeks. The submitted videos will be assessed and shortlisted by the IRC and […]
Read more » Why Research Matters – Video Presentation Competition

USI Mental Health Strategy 2014-2017

[…]Talk, More Action’. It was an honour to lead the development of this strategy. I would like to take this opportunity to thank member Students’ Union Officers and various mental health organisations for their support, input and dedication in developing and providing USI with a new strategy on mental health. This document aims to assist my successors and local Students’ Unions in following a coherent and consistent framework for ensuring our colleges and universities are mentally healthy, wealthy and prosperous for years to come. This strategy provides for good practice for the support of students, the promotion of mental well-being, […]

The Union of Students in Ireland has criticised the programme for government for not prioritising Higher Education Funding

[…]and can greatly improve a young person’s career prospects. USI said the government is very good at setting up parties to review findings of reports but does very little to implement the suggested changes. Donoghue said while talking about the funding crisis in Higher Education highlights the serious issues, action needs to be taken as a matter of urgency to fix the problem. “These groups frequently act as a can kicking exercise with very little coming out of them in terms of action.” Donoghue said. “We have a problem with funding right now. That problem was created by repeated cuts […]
Read more » The Union of Students in Ireland has criticised the programme for government for not prioritising Higher Education Funding

National Student Accommodation Survey

[…]Rights and Lease / Licence Agreement Cost of accommodation Finding accommodation Accommodation quality In 2017, USI released a similar survey in which 3,447 students across Ireland took part in. Some of the key findings were as follows; 📍 33% of students said they lived in purpose-built accommodation (PBSA) 📍 31% were in privately rented accommodation 📍 7% in digs (*The number of homeowners availing of tax-free income from rent-a-room scheme rose by 4,160 between 2004 and 2015) 📍 23% chose their accommodation because it suited their needs perfectly 📍 25% chose their accommodation because it was close to their college […]

USI and the HEA Recommends a change in higher education where students will be involved in decision-making processes

[…]Engagement in Higher Education.   The Working Group was established by the HEA in 2014 to develop a set of principles to assist higher education institutions in enhancing student engagement.  It was chaired by Professor Tom Collins. Kevin Donoghue, USI President, and Annie Hoey, USI Vice President attended the launch.   “Student engagement plays a pivotal role in academic success.” Kevin Donoghue said. “It enables quality assurance, better retention rates, educational satisfaction and means needs of the students are represented to the government. When students are seen as partners, not consumers, it improves the staff/student relationships and progression in high […]
Read more » USI and the HEA Recommends a change in higher education where students will be involved in decision-making processes

Union of Students in Ireland Criticises New Draft Report of Student Loan System

[…]meant that the money borrowed from the Government to pay for public universities in the UK started to flow straight to private financial institutions, which (like the privatisation of the NHS and Royal Mail in the UK) will undoubtedly have dire long-term consequences. Selling into privatisation is an assault on the education system, and in turn, students. “This system did not work in the UK, Australia or America.” Donoghue said “It would desecrate Ireland, tearing it apart and converting it from the Land of Saints and Scholars into the Land of Corporate Greed and Economically […]
Read more » Union of Students in Ireland Criticises New Draft Report of Student Loan System

USI welcomes Taoiseach’s comments in favour of publicly funding Higher Education

[…]7 and 8-year old primary school students will not have sufficient college places available to them in 2030 when the demographic bulge peaks with an additional 40,000 students seeking to access third level, nor will the education system be of the standard they deserve and one which the economic future of our country undoubtedly relies on. At €3,000, Ireland will have the highest fees in the EU after Brexit, and this is affecting access particularly for the most marginalised or disadvantaged. Meanwhile, SUSI grants have not increased for students in line with the cost of living and soaring rents in […]
Read more » USI welcomes Taoiseach’s comments in favour of publicly funding Higher Education

Reach out to someone this World Mental Health Day, say USI

[…]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. The USI will be […]
Read more » Reach out to someone this World Mental Health Day, say USI

Budget 2021 ignores barriers preventing student access to higher education in favour of piecemeal one-off funding

[…]for immediate sustainable core funding however, this Government, like those before it has failed to commit to a model which views and funds education as a public […]
Read more » Budget 2021 ignores barriers preventing student access to higher education in favour of piecemeal one-off funding

Welfare

[…]to be three times more prevalent than those aged over 21 years – a trend entirely attributed to online sites. Congress Mandates The Vice President for Welfare  to work with the relevant organisations to develop a campaign to inform students of the effects of gambling and  recognising an addiction.                           14 WEL 1      UPDATE USI ALCOHOL POLICY Congress notes: The motion passed, without objection, at USI National Council in November 2013 which ceased all workings with Drinkaware.ie and MEAS. Congress believes: USI should only work with independent experts […]

Youth Guarantee provides hope- Stop talking, act now

[…]following European summit and act on European Youth Guarantee USI is calling on the Government to act quickly and decisively in creating a National Jobs Plan for young people, to include considerable and significant investment in the European Youth Guarantee. This will ensure all young people would be offered the opportunity of a job, training place, apprenticeship or education course within 4 months of being out of work. Joe O’Connor, President of the Union of Students in Ireland said: “Despite over 200 people leaving Ireland a day during 2012, destroying families and crippling communities across the country, our youth unemployment […]
Read more » Youth Guarantee provides hope- Stop talking, act now

Queues of Students gather outside Garda stations across Ireland to Register to Vote before General Election

[…]is one of impatience,” Donoghue said, “We expect the student vote to be a powerful contributor to the outcome of the general election 2016. Students will vote for parties who prioritise education by increasing student support and grants, and who reduce the registration fee. Ireland has the second highest college registration fee in Europe. That’s not good enough. It’s unaffordable for so many young people. Education should be a basic human right, not a privilege.” The Rock the Register event will kick off in DIT tomorrow from 10am at Kevin Street, Aungier Street and Bolton Street in Dublin. ENDS For […]
Read more » Queues of Students gather outside Garda stations across Ireland to Register to Vote before General Election

USI Launches Student Pre-Budget Submission

[…]€140m into the higher education sector Costing: €140m   Proposal: For the government to restore grant for student teachers’ attendance at mandatory Gaeltacht courses Costing: €1m   Proposal: For the government to overturn the decision in Budget 2014 to impose the new pro-rata Student Contribution and reinstate the State contribution to fund apprenticeship fees. Costing: €3m to remove apprenticeship college fees annually   Proposal: 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 […]

All-Island Civic Dialogue – USI Address

[…]2025, and that living conditions face the biggest fall since records began. Governments, are going to have to find the will and the money to invest in third-level education. It already faces a funding crisis, and now, we face a race against time to find solutions to the damage Brexit will cause. USI fears that an already struggling Higher Education now faces years of papering over the Brexit cracks. With that in mind, students travelling North-South, East-West, and from EU countries must have their fee status secured. Students are not cash cows to fix the impending problems. Education is the […]

Sport can be a Key Player in Academic Success, improving Brain Function, Memory and Employability

[…]endorphins are a great natural way to tackle stress and focus on studies. “There are plenty of good reasons to be physically active at college.” Kevin Donoghue, President of the Union of Students in Ireland, said, “Apart from reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, lowering blood pressure and preventing depression by endorphins, exercise changes the brain in ways that protect memory and thinking. Studies suggest that parts of the brain which control memory and thinking (the prefrontal cortex and medial temporal cortex) have greater volume in people who exercise, versus people who don’t.”   “Engaging in a program […]
Read more » Sport can be a Key Player in Academic Success, improving Brain Function, Memory and Employability

Finance & Accommodation Guide

[…]moving into properties, and ending tenancies.  All tenants and prospective tenants are also urged to go to our website, www.rtb.ie which provides extensive information for both tenants and landlords, including information on our disputes resolution service. For further information, call the RTB on 0818 30 30 37 or 01 702 8100.” The RTB Rent Index provides the most accurate data on actual rents in areas around Ireland. Websites like Daft.ie are useful for renting, while Students’ Union Facebook groups or free websites like homes.usi.ie for digs are useful sources to find […]

Mental Health Campaign Celebrates 5th Year Of Getting Students Talking About Mental Health

[…]for the 5th year running, through our Walk in My Shoes campaign.” USI is urging students to visit their Students’ Union to pick up a ‘Chats For Change’ pack with the message that talking is a sign of strength, and being there for each other is what makes a campus a strong community. If students need support, please contact:   Samaritans – 116 123   Yourmentalhealthe.ie   Aware – 1800 80 48 48   Pieta House – 1800 247 247   Walk In My Shoes – 01 249 33 33   LGBT Helpline – 1890 929 539 Bodywhys – 1890 […]
Read more » Mental Health Campaign Celebrates 5th Year Of Getting Students Talking About Mental Health

USI condemns TCD attempt to break international & postgrad fees agreement

[…]hit with this unexpected increases in their already high fees, are now unsure if they can afford to return to their studies and, indeed, to Ireland. These students have been let down once again by an administration which students had began to regain trust and faith in, following the protest period in March. TCDSU fought to protect the interests of our students then, and we will do so now again.” Oisín Coulter, President of Trinity College Graduate Students’ Union, added that “Postgraduate and international students have been used as cash cows, with year on year fee increases and no improvement […]
Read more » USI condemns TCD attempt to break international & postgrad fees agreement

Minister McEntee launches National Student Mental Health Campaign with USI

[…]and want from mental health services.  We’re keen to discover what is the main contributing factor to one’s mental health and how the student movement can tackle those needs to best support young people and students in Ireland”. Responding to the good news, Minister McEntee said, “We are delighted to be working more closely with USI to see this project grow. The potential of this project will allow my department identify what students need in relation to mental health. We’re looking forward to seeing how Government and the department can approach students in relation to mental health, teach resilience and […]
Read more » Minister McEntee launches National Student Mental Health Campaign with USI

Why Research Matters video competition 2022

[…]education institution on the island of Ireland, regardless of funding or area of research.  How to Apply  To participate in the competition, we are asking you to create a video about the research that you are doing, discussing why you are doing this research, what you have learned or hope to learn, and why you think this research matters. Upon completion of your video, upload it to your preferred hosting service (e.g., YouTube) and then fill out this short application form to enter. Do not forget to include the link to your video in the appropriate section.  Note: The application […]

Over 700 show support at Student Nurses and Midwives Demonstration

[…]find yourself in difficult situations. Less than minimum wage to start off as an intern in this tough role is not good enough. Even worse is the fact the government are expecting graduates to start off significantly below the national minimum wage. It could be 6 years before nurses reach the previous starting salary of €25,000. The incentive to stay has disappeared, only three general nurses out of 65 that graduated from my class have accepted contracts in Ireland. The rest have left to work leaving behind their families and often relationships. Some have decided to get a different job […]
Read more » Over 700 show support at Student Nurses and Midwives Demonstration

Students Call On Senators To Reject Loans Scheme In Favour Of Public Investment In Education

Union of Students in Ireland (USI) today called on Senators to support a Labour private members motion this Wednesday, rejecting any move to implement an income-contingent loan scheme but instead to publicly invest in third level education. In advance of the debate, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “A decision to go ahead with an income-contingent loan scheme will increase emigration and sends a clear message to our future students: take your €20,000 debt, your degree, and get out.  Ireland currently charges the 2nd highest higher education fees in Europe after the UK, and we’ve seen in the UK that the […]
Read more » Students Call On Senators To Reject Loans Scheme In Favour Of Public Investment In Education

USI Welcomes First National Student Accommodation Strategy

[…]add a level of flexibility and sustainability to address measures in the student accommodation sector, and to assist students in finding appropriate accommodation”. Mr Kerrigan went on to say, “The omission of the cost of accommodation in the Strategy raises some concern. Already we’re seeing newly built student accommodation climbing to almost €1,000 a month. With Ireland having the second highest fees in Europe, and the average cost of college being €12,500 a year, we will continue to see students priced out of college. Cost of accommodation still needs to be addressed so CAO offers can be a positive moment […]
Read more » USI Welcomes First National Student Accommodation Strategy

Student leadership and activism recognised at Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2021

[…]by Samaritans): Jessica McMahon, MSU Part-Time Officer of the Year (sponsored by Hammond Good Solicitors): Stephen O’Riordan, UCCSU Postgraduate Champion of the Year (sponsored by SIPTU): Nicole Carr, MSU Student Activist of the Year (sponsored by Amnesty International): Mair Kelly, UCCSU Student Media Outlet of the Year: The University Times, TCDSU Students’ Union Team of the Year (supported by Gaisce – The President’s Award) Small: Stranmillis Students’ Union Medium: IT Carlow Students’ Union Large: TU Dublin Students’ Union Welfare Campaign of the Year (sponsored by SpunOut.ie): Student Wellbeing in Lockdown, NWRC Students’ […]
Read more » Student leadership and activism recognised at Student Achievement Awards Ireland 2021

Students Nationwide Stand Against Coca-Cola in #TasteZeroRights campaign

[…]collective bargaining with SIPTU and its members. Hopefully, this motion will help the management to come to their senses and accept that their workers have a right to be collectively represented by the union of their choice.”   Following the lead from NUS UK and the UK led campaign, USI will be drafting a letter of correspondence to Mr Quincey in support of the SIPTU members in Ballina and raise their concerns over this breach of the human rights of Coca Cola workers in Ballina Beverages.   Notes: The Union of Students in Ireland represent over 374,000 students across the […]
Read more » Students Nationwide Stand Against Coca-Cola in #TasteZeroRights campaign

USI Encourage Students to ‘Share the Load’ on International Men’s Day

[…]put on students during their time in college.  It’s important that students realise that it’s good to talk about these stresses and that a problem shared is a problem halved. It’s OK not to feel ok and we want you to know that there are support services available both on and off campus. Yesterday we launched a mental health text line for students that is available 24/7, just text USI to 086 1800 280 – you can also go to our +Connections App to find the services near you.” Speaking on behalf of 3ts, Lise Alford said: “We are delighted […]
Read more » USI Encourage Students to ‘Share the Load’ on International Men’s Day

Students and Parents urged to Prepare now for the Move to College

[…]in September. Flying the Coop provides information and guidance on all the relevant areas pivotal to moving to college and adjusting to living alone for the first time. Topics covered include: how to deal with the emotional adjustment; the physical move and finding accommodation; knowing your tenants rights; surviving the money woes with proper budgeting and understanding the costs of college; who can provide help when things aren’t always exciting and new. Nicola Moran, Youth Information Co-ordinator responsible for Flying the Coop says ‘the big hype about going to college is usually in  August when CAO offers are made. While […]
Read more » Students and Parents urged to Prepare now for the Move to College

USI supports National Condom Week 2012

[…]time and energy again. We are thrilled that this year Durex has supplied us with 30,000 condoms to distribute to communities throughout Ireland, including young people and at risk groups. Our mission is to improve conditions for people living with HIV and AIDS, their families and their caregivers, while actively promoting HIV and sexual health awareness in the general population. This incredible support from Durex Ireland means we can do just this.” Hazel Roche, brand manager for Durex Ireland, says: “National Condom Week gives us the chance to ensure safer sex is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. By partnering […]

Students warned against committing to accommodation without clarity on college attendance

[…]sure they will be renting the accommodation. If it seems like a great deal, it is probably too good to be true.” USI has also had contact from many students who are concerned about being able to retrieve their personal belongings from their rented accommodation. Ms Fitzpatrick explained: “A huge number of students returned home at the time of the outbreak of COVID-19 and of course haven’t yet returned. The Gardaí have clarified to Threshold that students retrieving their personal belongings from their rented accommodation could be considered essential travel. We would encourage students to do this as soon as […]
Read more » Students warned against committing to accommodation without clarity on college attendance

Joe O’Connor: Let’s hope the Government remembers students when it comes to Budget sums

[…]is not very intelligent. The grant system is not perfect, but it is the main support we provide to ensure equality of access to third level – to get people into college that otherwise wouldn’t have a chance. Last year, more than 75,000 students and families were supported by the maintenance grant in some form or another. The grant has been cut, either in rate or in threshold, in each of the last four budgets. It has been pared to the bone and beyond. At the same time, the cost of college is increasing. A recent survey by the Irish […]
Read more » Joe O’Connor: Let’s hope the Government remembers students when it comes to Budget sums

USI launches campaign to highlight concerns with Bank of Ireland’s postgraduate loan scheme

[…]out. Indeed, PhD courses are not included under the loan scheme at all. USI is advising students to go to their local Students’ Union for advice on the options available to them. USI Deputy President Kate Acheson said: “This information campaign serves two purposes. First, it informs students of the harsh terms of this scheme. Second, it highlights the failings of the Minister in his negotiation of the scheme with Bank of Ireland. At this point USI feels that some context is necessary to fully appreciate the situation third level students are in. In 1996, the Labour Party Minister for Education […]
Read more » USI launches campaign to highlight concerns with Bank of Ireland’s postgraduate loan scheme

USI offers advice for students leaving private rented accommodation; partners with Property Button Home Hub service.

[…]trouble-free departure from their current accommodation – and joined forces with Property Button to help prepare students make their next move hassle free. With the exam season coming to an end, it’s important to prepare to vacate your accommodation in good order – giving the owner nothing to complain about – and more importantly making sure you get that all-important deposit back. There are seven simple steps that everyone should follow to return the place in order and avoid any deposit deductions: make sure you’ve paid all due rent; do a meter reading and make sure you’ve left no outstanding […]
Read more » USI offers advice for students leaving private rented accommodation; partners with Property Button Home Hub service.

RTB and USI Launch Information Guide for Students

[…]moving into properties, and ending tenancies.  All tenants and prospective tenants are also urged to go to our website, www.rtb.ie which provides extensive information for both tenants and landlords, including information on our disputes resolution service. For further information, call the RTB on 0818 30 30 37 or 01 702 8100.” Ms Carroll said that the RTB has also published a guide to security deposits in order to provide clarity on this frequently debated area. Both tenants and landlords should read this guide before initiating a tenancy to avoid any problems over the course of a tenancy. The RTB Rent […]
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Motions and nominations Closed for Congress 2013

[…]Congress Motions Fax Number:  01 447 5081 USI Congress Director Email: congressdirector@usi.ie  Need to see how motions are written?  Here’s a link to last year’s Clár Constitutional Provision The USI Constitution contains the provisions for submitting 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 […]
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Publicly Funded Higher Education

[…]by the ‘Investing In National Ambition’ as the amount of additional public funding required to run a high-quality higher education sector. USI emphasises that the investment is required over a period of 14 years as the charge is removed. The DIT Campus Life Cost of Living Guide (2015) estimates the cost of living while studying at third-level at €11,000 per annum. The sum is made up of many different costs, of which the Student Contribution Charge is the second largest after rent. The only cost of attending third-level that can be directly addressed in the budget is this charge. Access […]

Winning Marriage Equality – a new year’s resolution

[…]of marriage equality than older generations. Over 90% of students are in favour of marriage equality. To hold this referendum any later than May 1st would be an act of folly on the part of the Government – none of us want to be watching the votes coming in wishing that more people could have voted yes and by holding it at an opportune time for students, USI will deliver on our promise of a higher percentile turn-out from that demographic. This has been the largest voter registration drive USI has completed in recent years and the first step in […]
Read more » Winning Marriage Equality – a new year’s resolution

Honouring Teaching Heroes

[…]Heroes Department Athlone Institute of Technology Jean Russell Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology  Pharmacology  Clinical Laboratory Techniques Athlone Institute of Technology Joseph Egan Marketing Institute of Technology Blanchardstown Marie Brennan Department of Humanities Institute of Technology Blanchardstown Pamela Kelly Department of Humanities College of Computer Training Colette Kirwan Computing College of Computer Training Gemma Davis Business Cork Institute of Technology Roy Sleator Biological Sciences Cork Institute of Technology Maurice Murphy Management & Enterprise Dublin Business School Siobhan Magner Marketing Department Dublin Business School David Wallace Management Department Dublin City University Stella Vlachou Nursing and Human Sciences Dublin City University Brian Leavy […]

National Affairs

[…]for Gaelscoileanna. Congress further notes with concern: That parents have had to take matters into to their own hands and set up unrecognised privately funded schools Congress therefore mandates the Education Officer and the Irish Language Officer: To lobby the government and the Minister for Education to abolish the current embargo and to ensure the promotion of the Irish language throughout the education system.   11 NA 5         ROLLING REGISTER Congress notes: That the ‘door to door’ method of maintaining the electoral register currently used in Ireland means there is little public confidence in the current method of voter registration. […]

Dundalk IT hosts Mental Health Day to Challenge Stigma and See Change on Campus

[…]down the stigma associated with mental health issues and ensuring that those affected have access to quality recovery services that are right for the individual. SOS works to build a society where people embrace their mental health wellness and those with difficulties are treated with dignity and respect, and experience a service that offers them hope, a safe place and a positive future. www.suicideorsurvive.ie  About Save Our Sons And Daughters (SOSAD): SOSAD works to raise awareness of suicide in Ireland, break the taboo surrounding suicide, provide support and direction to those feeling suicidal, provide support and direction to those approached […]
Read more » Dundalk IT hosts Mental Health Day to Challenge Stigma and See Change on Campus

USI and NUS-UK issue joint statement on Northern Ireland political situation

[…]to our hopes and aspirations, and build now for the future.   “The student movement stands together to speak with one voice to call for politicians to deliver agreement, cohesion and opportunity. Northern Ireland needs a stable and hopeful future for both students and wider society.   “And so our collective message is simple – we urge politicians in Northern Ireland, as well as the British and Irish governments to not be found wanting in their efforts to rebuild faith and trust in the political institutions in Northern Ireland and in providing responsible leadership in these challenging times.   ENDS […]
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USI Submission to National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP)

[…]they would be likely to use the internet as a source of help. It is vital we are reaching out to young people where they are searching for information and support. We recommend that the National Office for Suicide Prevention would coordinate and fund a specific targeted campaign that would use social media as a platform to engage young people on the issue on suicide prevention, the signs of suicide, how to support those around you and look after yourself.  3. Supporting Please Talk and it’s message In addition to the above recommendation, Please Talk was founded in UCD in […]
Read more » USI Submission to National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP)

Gaeilge / Irish Language

[…]recent years, and furthermore the USI commits to supporting all campaign efforts to retain and restore the teaching of academic subjects through the Irish language. Congress notes: That under the 1929 University College, Galway Act NUIG has a special responsibility towards teaching in the native language. While it is no longer a requirement of the University to give priority to Irish speakers when recruiting academic staff, it is none the less required to support, promote and expand on the teaching of academic subjects through Irish. Congress therefore mandates: The USI Oifigeach na Gaeilge to campaign on this issue and to […]

Citizenship Policies

[…]VP for Campaigns, in conjunction with the USI President, to write ‘the Student Manifesto’ to highlight USI’s key demands from political parties. Congress also mandates The VP for Campaigns, in conjunction with the USI President, to write ‘the Student Guide to the General Election’ which will inform the general student body on the election relevant to student issues and interests.     12 CZN 2           STUDENTS IN THE WORKPLACE REAPPROVED 2018 – UP FOR RENEWAL 2021 Congress notes: That in order to help fund their education, many students take up a part time job. Congress welcomes: The decision to reverse […]

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