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[…]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, Think Contraception branded Eco Cabs & digital game, promotion of STI tests and contraception choices, […]
SEXUAL HEALTH AND EMPOWERMENT IS IN THE HANDS OF STUDENTS USI runs a Sexual Health Health Awareness campaign and launches a survey on campuses across Ireland. Today the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) launched a Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance (SHAG) campaign running from the 10th -14th February. The campaign will include the launch of a ‘Sexual Experiences Survey’ with NUI Galway Active Consent, the distribution of 30,000 ‘SHAG Packs’, as well providing information on sexual health. The theme for this year is Sexual Empowerment amongst students. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick says: “The main focus of this campaign […]
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[…]meet Department of Justice requirements. However, international students are now required by the Health Insurance Authority (HIA) to have private health insurance. No other group in the country is required to have private health insurance. In order to rectify this anomaly and ensure equality for all students, Senator Malcolm Byrne has introduced a Seanad Private Members Bill titled the Health Insurance (International Students) (Amendment) Bill 2021. This Bill is a simple Bill and would remove international students from the definition of ordinarily resident, thereby removing the legal requirement for them to have very expensive private health insurance and allowing them access more affordable and tailored insurance that meets all requirements. We would […]
[…]last year. 15.4 % of children aged 11-13 and 19.5% of young adults aged 19-24 have had a mental health disorder and 75% of mental health difficulties arise before age 25, according to an RCSI study on mental health of young people in Ireland. “Students and young people have been repeatedly told there isn’t money to invest in the services they need – be it education, decent work or anything else.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “We’ve had the word ‘recovery’ jammed down our throats for 12 months and now they are stripping funding from a vital, under supported […]
[…]within a full term of Government. In the context of a 48% shortage in child and adolescent mental health service staff and lack of 24/7 mental health services across the country, full implementation cannot wait any […]
[…]around consent, this report yet again shows the extent of this problem for students. Our recent Sexual Experiences Survey highlighted the gaps that exist in our knowledge around student perceptions and practices regarding sexual consent and misconduct. That survey received 6,000 responses, which shows this is a huge issue among students. “There must be a clear zero tolerance stance on sexual harassment and violence in third level education. We are glad to see that Minister Simon Harris is taking a keen interest in the recommendations put forward by the National Advisory Committee for ending sexual harassment and violence in third […]
[…]to join calls for the reopening of the Gay Men’s’ Health Service (GMHS) clinic and other sexual healthcare facilities that are currently closed or highly restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. USI will now lobby for these services to be reinstated as a matter of urgency – the GMHS is currently only open for returning PrEP patients, leaving no services for other issues affecting gay men and the rest of the LGBTQI+ community and others. While a phased reintroduction of STI services is currently under way, this needs to be sped-up, as access to important sexual health services cannot continue to be denied. At present, GMHS is […]
[…]reminds students how a good cuppa and talk with someone they trust can really improve their mental health. By having these chats about mental health gives us the courage to say things aren’t okay and that we need help. Seeking help and talking about our mental health is a sign of strength.” Campaign partner and Project Manager from Walk In My Shoes, Amanda McArdle, said, “We know that 75% of all mental health difficulties begin before 24 years of age, so it is hugely important to encourage students at third level to start the conversation around mental health. The students […]
[…]and today students are taking a series of actions aimed at demanding a stop to gender-based sexual violence in third level education. The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is teaming up with the National Women’s Council (NWCI) to take a stand against sexual violence and harassment in Irish universities and colleges through the ‘It Stops Now’ campaign. Students’ Unions in numerous institutions are leading members in actions including poster-blasts, murals and banner-drops. The campaign is part of a host of International Women’s Week activities across Ireland and globally. NWCI Violence Against Women Officer, Hayley Mulligan said: “The campaign will […]
[…]of Students in Ireland, said, “We are reminding students that they must look after their sexual health. This means getting tested regularly and using condoms and dental dams to protect themselves from the risk of contracting an STI. Getting tested is quick, painless and usually free! The reported increase in rapes and sexual assaults in Ireland is very worrying. Research shows that only 1 in 10 cases are reported. What’s even more worrying is this figure is for the Rotunda hospital alone.” USI is delighted to have organizations such as SpunOut, HIV Irland, Aids West and Well Woman Centre onboard for the […]
[…]if needed at this time or in future. USI is also calling for legislation to make image-based sexual abuse illegal to be implemented immediately to protect individuals from such future incidents of non-consensual sharing and publication. While this behaviour is sexual abuse, it is not currently illegal in Ireland and there is no legal protection in place for those affected. Currently, anyone can upload private intimate pictures of an individual without their consent and not be penalised by law or convicted of a crime. This intolerable, abusive behaviour has happened repeatedly, with this latest large-scale leaking and sharing of private […]
The Sexual Experiences Survey is below. Data collected goes directly to the researchers and is not gathered or retained by USI. If you’re using the site on mobile or your browser isn’t showing the survey correctly, you can go directly to the survey page […]
[…]students. Students identifying as Asian or Asian Irish consistently reported the lowest rates of sexual misconduct and sexual harassment. Students from other White backgrounds, Black or Black Irish backgrounds and other backgrounds reported similar rates across most items. Over half of students with a disability reported an experience of sexual misconduct by any tactic (56%), compared with 42% of other students. Over 40% of students said they had a high level of awareness of four services that respond to students affected by misconduct – the Counselling Service, Student Services, the Health Unit, and Students’ Union Welfare Officer. Those undergraduate students […]
[…]current educational institution. Of these, 38 per cent of students reported that these unwanted sexual experiences had occurred on more than one occasion and 36 per cent noted that the unwanted sexual experience that they reported had occurred either ‘several times’ or ‘many times’. When asked for explanations of why they did not report matters to the Gardaí the two most frequent responses were (i) that they did not believe the incident was serious enough to report (57 per cent); and (ii) that they did not think that what happened was a crime (44 per cent) NOTES Link to the […]
[…]2019. This is a large piece of research and will provide a much-needed insight into student mental health. It is the first of its kind looking specifically at student mental health across Ireland. We got a great response to that survey with over 3300 people completing it. While this is not a large enough sample to be considered nationally representative, the results still hold value and point to areas of concern for students. We also hope to carry out several flash surveys that will give us a glimpse into specific issues for example the experience of international students or those […]
[…]should be urgently progressed and enacted to provide for criminalisation of image-based sexual abuse and other forms of online harassment. “The Online Safety Commissioner should be established, as proposed in the ‘Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill 2020’. This Bill should also provide for fast and cost-free civil legal remedies (take down orders) to have distressing and abusive images removed from online platforms quickly.” You can find the full report here. It is important to note that in February 2016, Northern Ireland made the sharing of sexually explicit images without consent a crime via sections 50-53 of the Justice Act, Northern […]
[…]Club, Dublin. The Open Up campaign encourages third level students to talk more about their mental health to friends, classmates, family and teachers, as well as to mental health and medical professionals when needed. USI Vice President for Welfare, Somhairle Brennan said: “The aim of the campaign is to encourage students to normalise conversations about how they are feeling and to check-in with one another about their mental health. The theme of the campaign also covers the challenges of society opening up post-pandemic and acknowledges of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student mental health.” USI will travel to […]
[…]and related supports in their area.” Voters can contact their local candidates via www.mentalhealthreform.ie. Join the conversation […]
[…]in mental health services, this represents an increase of just 3% in revenue funding for mental health, much less than the 7.4% increase in revenue spending for the health budget as a whole. This Government’s allocation will do little to redress the decades of neglect of Ireland’s mental health services, let alone put in place the foundations for a modern mental health system. In an act of community just five months ago, the #IAmAReason campaign rallied together to share our stories and to share what kind of impact cuts to and underdevelopment of mental health services means for real people. […]
[…]or outside of the college setting Self-care tips/advice Homesickness Erasmus LGBTI+ and mental health Disability and mental health Mature student experience Specific mental health difficulties Recovery Life after college Ideas on things people/leaders could do to improve student’s mental health at third level Submitting the blog Email your blog to Aoife at mentalhealth@usi.ie . Once you submit the blog you will receive notification of receipt of it within two working days. If the blog needs further editing you will be fully involved in the process. Selected blogs for publication will receive a €25 euro one for all voucher as a thank you. […]
[…]will also go towards developing the Consent Framework in HEIs, which the results of our recent Sexual Experiences Survey in partnership with Active Consent showed is urgently required and to the implantation of the National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework, which is set to be published in the near future.” Describing the funding as a “significant progressive step,” the Psychological Counsellors in Higher Education Ireland also welcomed the funding. PCHEI Chairperson, Gertie Raftery said: “Our services were severely over-stretched prior to COVID-19, and we now know so much more about the impacts COVID-19 and associated restrictions have had […]
[…]will also go towards developing the Consent Framework in HEIs, which the results of our recent Sexual Experiences Survey in partnership with Active Consent showed is urgently required and to the implantation of the National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework, which is set to be published in the near future.” Describing the funding as a “significant progressive step,” the Psychological Counsellors in Higher Education Ireland also welcomed the funding. PCHEI Chairperson, Gertie Raftery said: “Our services were severely over-stretched prior to COVID-19, and we now know so much more about the impacts COVID-19 and associated restrictions have had […]
[…]they’re doing.” Sarah Surgenor, Communications Manager at St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services said: “Mental health issues are experienced by every family in Ireland. It’s something we all know about. ‘Chats for Change’ encourages students to begin this conversation and we’re delighted to be on hand to give mental health advice to students at various colleges throughout the country this […]
[…]cuts to their funding by Universities and Institutes of Technology.” USI has developed a Mental Health Directory containing a list of mental health support services in Ireland. Download here. ENDS For more information contact Communications and Research Executive Grainne O Reilly on 087 6776636 or 01 […]
[…]education providers, they also have a responsibility to protecting and promoting students mental health and wellbeing. Since July 2017 the HSE have provided funding to support the mental health project in USI. It is clear from the statistics that this project within USI to examine and advocate for services to meet the need of the growing demand is very much needed. Find out more at […]
[…]services on campus.” USI is calling on the Government to invest in third-level mental health counselling and ring-fence €3m for student counselling and supports per annum to tackle mental health on campus, and increase the academic experience for […]
[…]is set to start in July, will see USI working with key stakeholders across the country in mental health to break mental health stigma, promote services and train student leaders to identify and respond to their peers’ mental health needs. Speaking the launch of the project, USI President Annie Hoey said, “USI is proud to be partnering with the HSE, NOSP, and the Minister for Mental Health and Older People in this new exciting venture. Annually USI has run a major national third level mental health campaign, “Chats for Change” and we are excited to see the campaign develop further, […]
[…]with the Community Mental Health Teams (CMHT) (multi-agency teams consisting of different mental health professionals such as community mental health nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, support time recovery workers, administration workers, psychiatrists and psychologists) to evolve a care plan that will address the key factors that have precipitated a crisis ultimately forcing individuals and students to an A&E. The environment of an A&E mixed with lack of present expertise surrounding mental and emotional health is severely damaging for students and anyone in distress. With almost 11,126 cases involving 8,708 individuals presenting to services in 2014 due to self-harm and with 487 […]
[…]students, the promotion of mental well-being, promotion of help seeking and prevention of mental health difficulties. Together, we can focus on promoting educated and positive attitudes to mental health and wellbeing and a positive approach in what we do as we lead students in looking after their own mental health and those around them”. Let’s Talk, Let’s Change Minds, Let’s Reach […]
[…]Minister with special responsibility for mental health will be launching the ‘ReCharge’ mental health campaign and ‘+Connections’ mental health support app in University College Cork on November 12th. The ‘ReCharge’ campaign is a campaign to empower and encourage students to seek support and take time to recharge their mental health. USI President Síona Cahill stated: “The importance of striving to improve mental health services at third level year on year cannot be stressed enough. The Union of Students in Ireland have always and will always host national Mental Health campaigns due to the severity of the situation and to promote […]
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[…]Government should produce a detailed, time-lined Action Plan to continue the reform of mental health supports and improve the mental health of the whole population, ensuring that adequate funding and the structures for good governance and oversight of the plan are in place. “We are urging the government to increase funding given specifically for the provision of adequate counselling services to all third level students either through the direct employment of more counsellors or in purchasing external counselling session hours.” Donoghue said, “The next government should deliver more funding to Higher Education Institutions, specifically allocated for counselling staff and mental health […]
[…]students, who have been shown time and time again to be, as Minister Harris says “facing mental health challenges like no other” generation. The €5 million funding announced is expected to keep student mental health services at their current level. Colleges and universities in Ireland currently have just one counsellor for every 2,240 students, even though it is recommended by the International Accreditation of Counseling Services that there should be one counsellor for every 1,000 to 1,500 students. USI Vice President for Welfare, Colette Murphy said: “We had been in touch with Students’ Unions and student counselling services across the country in relation […]
[…]days easier. We’re also encouraging students who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health to avail of college support services. We are delighted to partner with mental health organisations that will help spread the message of this campaign across Ireland.” Collette Ryan, of HeadsUp said: “HeadsUp is delighted to be a partner once again in the development of the USI Mental Health pack. The theme ‘What Makes You Smile?’ fits perfectly with HeadsUp’s activities, in particular our ‘Online Skills’ and ‘Acts of Random Kindness’ available on www.headsup.ie. Sometimes it’s the little things in life that can have such a positive […]
[…]they’re doing.” Sarah Surgenor, Communications Manager at St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services said: “Mental health issues are experienced by every family in Ireland. It’s something we all know about. ‘Chats for Change’ encourages students to begin this conversation and we’re delighted to be on hand to give mental health advice to students at various colleges throughout the country this week.” For more information contact USI Communications & Research Executive Grainne O’Reilly on 087-6776636 or 01-9052100 or Denise McCarthy 087-2991265 or […]
[…]in our society. “These figures outline the urgent need for an increase in funding to mental health services.” Kevin Donoghue, USI President, said. “While we welcome the restoration of the mental health budget, there needs to be an immediate response to these statistics released by the HSE in the form of adequate funding for a nationwide 24/7 community-based crisis intervention service for people in severe distress.” A 2011 OECD study found that Ireland’s 30-day re-admission rate for schizophrenia was more than double the rate in the UK. None of the HSE community mental health services offer a 24/7 operation and […]
[…]across the island are running a day of online action aiming to shed light on student mental health and highlight how looking after your mental health is intrinsic to overall well-being. USI is also welcoming the publication on the day of the National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework, which the union and its members were proud to be involved in producing. The focus of USI actions on World Mental Health Day is support and connecting with one another – from raising awareness of services that are available to students and the wider population, to checking-in with family, friends and the […]
[…]a mental health difficulty in the last year. 19.5% of young adults aged 19-24 have had a mental health disorder and 75% of mental health difficulties arise before the age of 25, according to an RCSI study on mental health of young people in Ireland. “The lack of resources for and commitment to Mental Health services in Ireland means that even though we have a strategic plan, little progress is being made and A Vision for Change is suffering as a result.” Donoghue said. “Funding was ring-fenced and was promised to help relieve the demand on mental health workers who are being pushed […]
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[…]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 to raise awareness of the strong link between binge drinking and poor mental health amongst their peers and it’s a significant sign of their 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: The campaign will launch at 11am at the National College of Ireland, Mayor Square, Dublin 1 Speaking at the launch will be Greg O’Donoghue, Suzanne […]
[…]mental health with focus on third-level institutions; Tackling • Liaise with the Department of Health in the development of policy on youth mental health with focus on third-level institutions under the rubric of the Connecting for Life; • Work with relevant authorised stakeholders to improve youth mental health with focus on third-level institutions; • Contribute to the development of a range of written resources, policy papers, guidance materials and publications; • Identify and undertake necessary duties and activities to deliver the role’s responsibilities; • Carry out other duties and activities as may reasonably be required in order to support colleagues […]
[…]found that among students who participated in the USI National Report on Student Mental Health in Third Level Education, just under a third had received a formal diagnosis of their mental health. Most of these students received a diagnosis of depression [74%] and anxiety [73.5%]. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said: “This is such an important resource for students, anxiety and depression is something that an uncountable amount of students suffer from on a day to day basis. In the USI National Report on Student Mental Health in Third Level Education, we found that 34.4% of students were put on a […]
[…]some of the worry. USI is working to eliminate any remaining stigma associated with mental health and to promote a healthy attitude towards seeking help.” Gertie Raferty, Student Counsellor at DkIT said: “We are delighted to be part of this day and the message we want to send out is that no matter what your mental health difficulty may be, you are not alone; there is support available on campus. Our aim through sharing our experience is that no longer can we leave those who are feeling very low, who have suicidal thoughts, who are self-harming or those bereaved through […]
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[…]study carried out in late autumn, students were offered a range of words to describe their mental health – 70% of survey respondents said they were ‘anxious’, 60% said they felt ‘uncertain’ and 34% described themselves as ‘sad’, while 28% were ‘pessimistic’ and about one-quarter ‘fearful’. Lorna said: “In any normal year, students experience increased stress in the lead up to exams. This year, that is coupled with a global pandemic that is now at levels nobody predicted. Research has shown that the pandemic is having a huge impact on students’ and other young people’s mental health. We are particularly […]
[…]2008. Spunout.ie. 2011. Exercise Addiction. Spunout.ie. [Online] 2011. […]
USI are delighted to support the 20 x 20 campaign. 20×20 is an all-inclusive movement to shift Ireland’s cultural perception of women’s sport by 2020 with: a 20% increase in media coverage of women in sport a 20% increase in female participation at all levels of sport a 20% increase in attendance at women’s games and […]
[…]and Science to highlight the student accommodation crisis, the need for more student mental health resources and the need to abolish tuition fees. TCDSU President, László Molnárfi said: “This Government has done undeniable harm to our communities. This is not by accident, or by incompetence. The system is working exactly as it is intended to. They follow a neoliberal capitalist economic policy, and represent big capital, vulture funds and corporations – not the people, our communities, and workers. Their policies have seen homelessness grow to unprecedented levels during their time in government, a failing healthcare system, a housing crisis, inaccessible education, and the […]
[…]Awareness and Guidance (SHAG) campaign. The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) launches its annual sexual health campaign this week in collaboration with Durex, MSD and Think Contraception. The campaign, which will be rolled out in campuses across Ireland will be officially launched in the National College of Ireland (NCI) today at 12 noon. 45,000 SHAG packs will be distributed to college campuses nationwide. Each pack contains a condom, a sachet of lubricant and a ‘Talkoptions’ booklet on contraceptive options, along with information regarding safe sex and STIs. More information will also be available on shag.usi.ie – a website dedicated to informing […]
[…]is launching a Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance (SHAG) campaign in collaboration with the HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme today, 12th February 2018. The campaign will be rolled out in campuses across Ireland over Valentines week, with the tagline of ‘Are You Getting It?’ If you’re getting it, then you’re getting STI information and testing, getting contraception advice and getting consent. Speaking ahead of the launch, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “This year, we’re asking students ‘are you getting it?’ when it comes to STI tests and consent. It’s important that every student who’s sexually active look after […]
[…]2015 – a 3.3% increase from 2014. “We are urging students and young people to look after their sexual health.” Annie Hoey, USI President, said. “This means getting tested regularly and using condoms and dental dams to protect themselves from the risk of contracting an STI. Getting tested is quick, painless and usually free, at college health clinics, GUM clinics and sexual health clinics.” There were almost five times the amount of reported cases of gonorrhoea in men (1,083) compared to women (221) in 2015, but there were almost three times the amount of reported genital herpes in women (928), compared […]
[…]Accommodation Strategy USI Smoking Cessation Strategy USI Sexual Health Strategy USI Physical Health, Healthy Eating and Body Confidence Strategy USI Mental Health Strategy USI Gambling Harm Reduction Strategy USI Drugs Harm Reduction Strategy USI Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy A Vision for Partnership USI BTEA Reform Proposals USI Financial Representation Protocol USI Training Policy USI USI Union Development Strategy 2015 – […]
[…]Coming Out workshops, Supporting a Friends who’s Coming Out, Looking after your Mental Health, Sexual Health, Trans* Awareness, Running an LGBT Society, Bisexuality Awareness, Being an LGBT Ally, Sexual Empowerment, lobbying and media skills. Laura Harmon, Vice President for Equality and Citizenship said: “It’s great to see so many delegates attending Pink Training this year from so many different colleges. It’s also fantastic to see many new colleges attending who haven’t sent delegates to Pink Training before. This is the largest training event that USI runs and we are proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the event this year. […]
[…]about safe sex. With almost a third of Irish men and women (30 per cent) never receiving any sexual health education in school, information provided within each SHAG pack aims to help students have safer sex and make informed decisions regarding their contraceptive choices. Despite the low number of people who have received formal sex education, there is a thirst for knowledge among Irish students, with 81 per cent agreeing that sex education enables people to be more responsible with sex. See attached a photo of the USI SHAG pack. Quick statistics from the Durex Wellbeing Global Survey: 80 per […]
[…]ahead of Valentines week. The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has partnered with the HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme to launch the 2017 Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance (SHAG)campaign. This event, held in campuses across Ireland, will encourage young people who are sexually active to get tested for STI’s, think ahead and practice safer consensual sex. Chlamydia is the most common STI diagnosed in Ireland with 6,797 diagnoses in 2015, 65% of Chlamydia diagnoses were among young people aged 20 to 29 years. Provisional data from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre shows a 1.5% increase […]
[…]Coming Out workshops, Supporting a Friends who’s Coming Out, Looking after your Mental Health, Sexual Health, Trans* Awareness, Running an LGBT Society, Bisexuality Awareness, Being an LGBT Ally, Sexual Empowerment, lobbying and media skills. Laura Harmon, USI VP for Equality and Citizenship said: ”USI is proud of the diversity of our membership. Students have played a huge role in the campaign for LGBT rights across the island. Pink Training is an immensely positive event, it’s about empowering students and student activists to campaign for their rights and to learn how to look after themselves. This is the largest training event […]
[…]can order free condom dispensers from the HSE, which will enable the provision of free condoms and sexual health information to students on campuses nationwide. Information leaflets will be made available with the condom dispensers, which will outline to students how to use condoms correctly, and will emphasise the importance of using condoms consistently and every time sex happens. The information leaflets will direct students to HSE-led and HSE-funded websites for further information about sexual health and wellbeing; www.sexualwellbeing.ie and www.man2man.ie. Speaking ahead of the launch, the Minister for Health, Simon Harris said “Sexual health is a priority for my Department. In recent […]
[…]has revealed just 55 per cent of Irish 18-year-olds will leave secondary school withany formal sexual health education, while another 15 per cent cannot remember receiving theirs. What’s more, more than 80 per cent of Irish men and women risk STIs and unplanned pregnancy by not always using a condom with a new partner or someone who is not their main partner. The global survey found that just 12per centwill always use a male condom with someone who is not their regular partner. Durex’s Sexual Wellbeing Global Survey also revealed that of the men surveyed, the average number of sexual […]
[…]particularly regarding cost. Students as a cohort have already been failed by a lack of sexual health education at post-primary level, and we are still being failed when it comes to actual access to contraceptives, and cost is most certainly a barrier.” The USI believes that the ability to choose contraception is imperative for all students and those who are sexually active. Siona continued: “What is imperative here is the ability for people to choose and be comfortable with the best methods of contraception for them, without cost as a hurdle to that decision making. We […]
[…]campus. PRESS RELEASE The Union of Students in Ireland have partnered with the HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme in this exciting and educational campaign for third level students. SHAG Week 2019 will focus on areas such as: STI’s (awareness, prevention, testing and treatment) Consent Unplanned Pregnancy (promotion of HSE MyOptions) Contraception (the various methods of contraception and how to use them) Throughout the week, 30,000 ‘SHAG PACKS’ will be distributed around USI affiliated colleges in Ireland. The contents of these will include condoms, lubricant, information on consent, STIs and contraception. HSE research finds: […]
[…]campus. PRESS RELEASE The Union of Students in Ireland have partnered with the HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme in this exciting and educational campaign for third level students. SHAG Week 2019 will focus on areas such as: STI’s (awareness, prevention, testing and treatment) Consent Unplanned Pregnancy (promotion of HSE MyOptions) Contraception (the various methods of contraception and how to use them) Throughout the week, 30,000 ‘SHAG PACKS’ will be distributed around USI affiliated colleges in Ireland. The contents of these will include condoms, lubricant, information on consent, STIs and contraception. HSE research finds: […]
[…]Ireland (USI) & Mental Health Reform have joined forces to ask voters to help make mental health a priority this May. 4MentalHealth is a 4 week campaign, with 4 key actions local candidates can take, if elected,to improve people’s mental health and well-being. The 2014 Local Elections represent an important opportunity to keep mental health on the agenda between now and the elections on 23rd May. FOUR KEY ACTIONS: Local elected representatives can promote good mental health and ensure the social inclusion of those with mental health difficulties by: 1. Demanding improved community-based mental health services locally for children and adults, and the implementation of […]
[…]including the selection of trainers The Vice President for Welfare attended his last HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy meeting where he gave an evaluation for USIs work on sexual health. From the meeting their was active commitment to support USIs goals and further collaboration on projects in first term and for SHAG weeks going forward The Vice President for Equality and Citizenship attended a networking seminar organised by Trocaire, gathering student environmental activists leading college divestment campaigns in Dublin on Monday last, and we will be providing further support to the campaigns on divestment in the coming months. USI met […]
[…]for Change campaign takes place in USI member colleges across Ireland, promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. It’s an initiative of the USI Welfare Campaign and is supported by Please Talk and St Patricks Mental Health Foundation. We’re proud to have Twitter as a partner for the […]
[…]Coming Out workshops, Supporting a Friend Who’s Coming Out, Looking After Your Mental Health, Sexual Health, Trans* Awareness, Running an LGBT Society, Bisexuality Awareness, Being an LGBT Ally, Sexual Empowerment, lobbying and media skills. Speaking ahead of the event former GMIT Students’ Union President and USI President Michael Kerrigan said: “USI is proud to be holding the twenty-fifth Pink Training with the support of Microsoft here in Galway. Each year, hundreds of students’ lives are transformed for the better through the advice, support and life-long friends created here at Pink Training. The positive impact on LGBT students and their allies […]
[…]Coming Out workshops, Supporting a Friend Who’s Coming Out, Looking After Your Mental Health, Sexual Health, Trans* Awareness, Running an LGBT Society, Bisexuality Awareness, Being an LGBT Ally, Sexual Empowerment, lobbying and media skills. Speaking ahead of the event former GMIT Students’ Union President and USI President Michael Kerrigan said: “USI is proud to be holding the twenty-fifth Pink Training with the support of Microsoft here in Galway. Each year, hundreds of students’ lives are transformed for the better through the advice, support and life-long friends created here at Pink Training. The positive impact on LGBT students and their allies […]
[…]member will not disseminate Cura information in any USI materials or campaigns relating to sexual health and support. USI recommends the following services to students for abortion care and support: Irish Family Planning Association – free post-abortion counselling can be booked through the National Pregnancy Helpline 1850 49 50 51. Dublin Rape Crisis Centre – offer help and support to anyone who has experienced sexual violence of any kind 1800 77 8888 or email counselling@rcc.ie Dublin Well Woman Centre – free after abortion counselling 01 […]
[…]with an incredible 140 other women. Last week, the Vice President for Welfare alongside Mental Health First Aid Ireland hosted the first of 4 training for student officers in University College Cork. USI secured funding earlier in the year from the HSE to train Officers the necessary skills in how to bets support people with mental health difficulties and distresses. Over 40 Officers were trained and certified. USI warmly welcomes the publication of a book edited by Gráinne Healy, titled Crossing The Threshold which includes a chapter on the student movement’s significant work in building towards Marriage Equality in Ireland, […]
[…]Ireland council Keith Woods, followed by contributions from An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Minister for Health Simon Harris and Health Promotion Minster for Health Promotion Marcella Corcoron Kennedy. The Purpose of the Healthy Ireland Network is: To establish and grow an empowering National movement through which Health and Well-being is seen as an individual and collective responsibility To support, advocate and ensure the Healthy Ireland message is spread, understood and acted on throughout Ireland USI was nominated by the Healthy Ireland Council to contribute further to the national and local framework as being a network partner. As USI is a key […]
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[…]Galway, Tullamore and Cork’s trained RCC volunteers accompanied 108 victims of rape and sexual assault to 4 Sexual Assault Treatment Units in July and August in 2015. Research tells us that only 1 in 10 report these crimes. These most recent figures are very worrying and alarming. In our laws the definition of the crime of rape is black and white. Sex without consent is rape. However we do not have a definition of consent in our legislation and this is something we are hoping will be included in the new Sexual Offences Bill. We hope that this campaign will […]
[…]hour Rape Crisis helpline on 1800 778 888 if you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence. Read the “Say Something” Report conducted by USI and supported by COSC (National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence). For more information on USI contact USI Communications & Research Executive Grainne O’Reilly on 087-6776636, or […]
[…]mental health counselling services by ring-fencing €3m per annum to tackle future mental health crisis on campus. The urgent call comes ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10th as tax cuts dominate the outcomes of Budget 2018 due to be released tomorrow by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe. USI President Michael Kerrigan said, ‘Budget 2018 should focus on improving mental health supports, and not on tax cuts. Waiting lists for on third-level counselling services are currently seeing students waiting for up to six weeks to see a counsellor. Students are facing depression, anxiety, loneliness, substance misuse, and suicidal behaviour […]
[…]at their current educational institution 1 in 5 women surveyed experienced some form of unwanted sexual experience, with 11% experiencing unwanted sexual contact Just 3% of respondents who had an unwanted sexual experience reported it to the Gardaí The largest proportion of victims of unwanted sexual experiences identified the perpetrators as being acquaintances 10% of women and 5% of men experienced obsessive behaviour that made them afraid or concerned for their safety 19% of men and 17% of women have been photographed or filmed without their consent Over 10% of men and 8% of women have had photographs or videos […]
[…]how to prevent the transmission of Gonorrhoea and other STIs. The campaign’s 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 […]
[…]how to prevent the transmission of Gonorrhoea and other STIs. The campaign’s 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 […]
[…]Pro-Choice Activism, Trans* Activism and modules relating to reproductive health rights, anti-sexual violence campaigns and LGBTQ Health. USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship Laura Harmon said: ”We are really delighted to be co-hosting this event with the Y-Factor. Students on campuses across the country are doing amazing work on gender equality issues and we wanted to foster links between activists and facilitate the sharing of ideas by bringing them together. We still live in an unequal society and gender equality activism, including feminism and Transgender equality campaigning, are as needed today as they ever were. As the national students’ […]
[…]we respect the need to ensure the safety of those on placement and to address pressure in the health service, this extension means that students are once again uncertain about what their education will look like for the remainder of the semester. Placements are currently due to recommence from February 8, but not all clinical placement sites will be able to accommodate students from this date and there is limited information available as to what this will mean for students who cannot return to placement at this time. “USI urges the Departments of Health and Further and Higher Education, Research Innovation […]
[…]play a huge part in reducing the stigma surrounding it.” The National Taskforce on Youth Mental Health 2016/2017 is made up of Helen McEntee TD, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People (Chair); Paul Reid, Fingal County Manager (Chair alternate); Cian Power, VP for Welfare, Union of Students of Ireland ; Dr Tony Bates, CEO Jigsaw; Prof Mary Cannon, RCSI; Rob Hennelly, GAA; Dr Shari McDaid, Mental Health Reform; Moninne Griffith, BeLonG To; Mary Cunningham, National Youth Council of Ireland; Grainia Long, ISPCC; Ian Power, CEO SpunOut.ie ; Jim Breen, CEO Cycle Against Suicide; and representatives of the […]
[…]for mental health thanked the Union of Students in Ireland for the work being done on mental health at third level, speaking on this the Minister stated: “Mental health is everybody’s concern, it is all of our responsibility to collectively embrace the challenge. We need to have some serious conversations about where we are going in the area of mental health, societally. USI have shown great leadership today in launching this app [+Connections] and providing a tool for every student to direct and signpost them to the appropriate services available, I want to acknowledge the contribution of the ESB for […]
[…]services to arrange an appointment to talk to someone For useful resources on your mental health go to the ‘Mind Your Mental Health’ on usi.ie HSE’s www.yourmentalhealth.ie has specific advice on how to mind your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak You may have grown up with a parent or older sibling with substance use problems which may be affecting your mental health and relationships – www.alcoholactionireland.ie/silentvoices has a range of helpful resources. If you feel you are at risk of suicide during the pandemic, call 999/112 or present to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department Domestic issues Issues in […]
[…]Health & Wellbeing Reproductive Rights & Sexual Violence Language Rights USI President Joe O’Connor said; ‘In 1959, the students of Ireland built their Union on the principles “for the defense, promotion and organisation of the fundamental educational, welfare, economic, political, social, cultural and other interests of all the students in Ireland on a national and international level.” Today our principles are the same as they were almost 55 years ago, Ireland has changed as has its students but our core values remain the same. We work to improve student life across the board and to ensure student voices are heard. […]
[…]HIV cases, we need to invest in HIV testing, we must ensure barrier-free access to PrEP and sexual health clinics and services across Ireland with a serious focus on ending HIV-related stigma in Ireland. As Ireland comes out of the COVID-19 pandemic, we look to the Government’s robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic and urge the Government to commit the same robust response to ending HIV and HIV-related stigma. USI support calls from HIV Ireland for the Irish Government to re-evaluate the current approach to ending HIV transmission in Ireland considering record high rates of newly notified cases of HIV. […]
[…]dramatic, we are not being ‘shrill’, we’re calling out an epidemic. We have campaigned on sexual health awareness and guidance for over two decades and there is finally recognition from Government that we don’t just need their concern, we need their resourcing to tackle a cultural and societal problem that we can’t ignore” This week, the Irish Universities Association (IUA) launched an Indecon report on the reinvestment back into the economy and society that Universities make in the Irish third level system, a figure of almost €9 billion per annum. Cahill further remarked: “We need to recognise as a state […]
[…]who are available to listen to you and any concerns you may have in regard to issues of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment or childhood sexual abuse. 👉Women’s Aid FREEPHONE: 1800 341 900 The Women’s Aid National Freephone Helpline offers confidential information, advice, support and understanding to women who are being physically, sexually or mentally abused in their own homes. The Helpline also acts as a referral to refuge, counselling services, solicitors, legal aid and other agencies, both statutory and voluntary, which are helpful to women experiencing abuse within a […]
[…]all Irish citizens who aspire to it. It has also campaigned on issues such as marriage equality, sexual health and family planning. During your first year in college we hope you’ll join us in our campaigns. Every year, college students face new and more serious threats to their education. The government’s reaction to the economic slump has been astoundingly shortsighted. They have increased the student contribution charge and cut the maintenance grant on an annual basis and in doing so have created a massive financial burden for students and their families. And that’s where you come in. The most important […]
[…]participation in third-level education within the EU. The importance of promoting positive mental health among the large third-level student population cannot be underestimated with A Vision for Change (2006) showing a high percentage of students experiencing mental health difficulties. These difficulties include: depression, anxiety, loneliness, substance misuse, and suicidal behaviour. This document also shows, almost 75% of all mental disorders first emerge between the ages of 15 and 25. The provision of counselling services to meet the growing numbers and diverse needs of students has not kept pace. Waiting lists are currently seeing students waiting for up to six weeks. […]
Pat Kenny Newstalk: Internship Culture (Skip to 39.17 ) 02/12/2013 Say Something Survey Newstalk […]
[…]supports, to urgently address the digital divide and action needed following the recent student Sexual Experiences Survey were among the key issues the USI discussed – and proposed solutions to – with Minister Harris. Issues around student supports featured heavily in the discussion with the USI outlining areas in need of immediate review such as the SUSI eligibility criteria and the need to expand the thresholds to ensure all those who need to access SUSI can do so. The need for increased funding for the Student Assistance Fund and the Back to Education Allowance were also outlined by USI. The […]
[…]comes to consent. It’s important that every student who’s 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 […]
[…]comes to consent. It’s important that every student who’s 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 […]
[…]of information on YourMentaHealth.ie. We encourage anyone who is concerned about their own mental health or the mental health of someone they care about to visit the website to learn more. Young people are a priority group that are identified within our Connecting for Life, Irelands National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020, so we are delighted to support the Re:Charge campaign that has been developed specifically for […]
[…]more support and investment is needed in peer support programmes, mental health nurses in student health centres, mental health modules as part of curriculums and training for both staff and students around mental health.” USI is looking forward to the upcoming publication of the first National Framework on Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention which will provide evidence-based guidance for all those working in third level to come together in preventing suicide and improving mental health for all students. Supports available: Contact your college counselling service or welfare officer Make an appointment with your GP In an emergency attend your […]
[…]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 […]
[…]Health Reform, UpLift and Future Voices handing over of 12,000 petitions to Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Helen McEntee, calling for more 24/7 community mental health services. The Vice President for Welfare met Residential Tenancies Board Stakeholders meeting with the USI Student Housing Project Manager. USI launched an open call for looking for stories on issues from students or recent graduates who are currently employed or have been employed in low paid work or zero-hour contracts. Click here and submit your story in confidence. The Vice President for Welfare met with Problem Gambling Ireland and Rutland centre on […]
[…]alongside a session from SIPTU on workers rights and the Irish language. Topics like sexual health from the HSE, alcohol, drugs and substances from Drugs.ie, accommodation rights from Threshold and student finances from Mabs were covered for Welfare Officers. To add, Jigsaw ran a session mental health followed by a session on boundaries by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre. Digital native Malachy Callan from Broadlake delivered a module on digital marketing and branding with Eric Fitzgerald handing over tips on booking acts and marketing events. The Director of Education at the European Institute of Communications, Eugene Grey, offered training on […]
[…]Registration Reform USI Sustainability Strategy 2018 Strategies passed at Congress in 2017: Health Promotion Strategy 2017 – 2020 (PDF) Strategies passed at Congress in 2016: USI Equality Strategy (PDF) Students For Choice Strategy (PDF) USI Accommodation Strategy (PDF) Strategies passed at Congress in 2015: USI Union Development Strategy 2015 – 2020 (PDF) Strategies passed at Congress in 2014: USI Mental Health Strategy 2014 – 2017 […]
[…]Behaviour Campaign paper; Meeting with Health Services Executive (HSE) to discuss collaboration on sexual health campaigns. Campaigns Management of research into student housing through the “National Student Housing Survey”, with over 1500 responses received to date; Preparation of USI’s submission to the Low Pay Commission on the National Minimum Wage calling for the gradual introduction of a living wage and outlining how this will positively impact students and graduates at work; Finalised designs and strategy for the next few months on the fight for publicly funded higher education. Equality & Citizenship Launched registration for #WomenLead17, taking place next […]
[…]Activism, Trans* Activism and modules relating to reproductive health rights, men’s health and LGBTQ Health. Register your place here, spaces are limited. Email equality@usi.ie for more information. Follow #GenCon14 on Twitter to get in on the […]
[…]Taskforce meeting with Minister for Mental Health and Older people. Campaign Spotlight – Sexual Health And Guidance 2017: USI distributed 36,000 condoms across Ireland while visiting DCU, WIT, IT Sligo and QUB with the HSE, Think Contraception, IFPA, HIV Ireland, SpunOut.ie, BelongTo and Man2Man. #SHAG17 trended on Twitter for 7 hours in Ireland and reached 1.4 million people. The Vice President for Welfare handed out 11,000 condoms to students across 4 campuses. USI launched a retro-video arcade shooter called Sexually Transmitted Invaders. USI launched shag.usi.ie with information on consent, STIs and information on safer sex. USI became official partners with […]
USI end partnership with drinkaware.ie Newstalk Breakfast 26/11/13 USI Launch Student Mental Health Campaign with the help of Alan Quinlan 11/11/13 #OMGsti: Gonorrhoea is Trending Spin103.8 […]
[…]and stalking; harassment; educational support; physical mistreatment and violence; and unwanted sexual experiences. The survey can be completed confidentially and will seek information from students of all genders and sexualities. USI would encourage all students to complete the online questionnaire as soon as possible as we anticipate being able to produce initial findings at the end of next month. The USI, in conjunction with their member organisations throughout the country, will be promoting this survey over the coming weeks. Link to the survey: http://survey.usi.ie/index.php?sid=76276&lang=en (or if you’re tweeting, use http://tinyurl.com/usi2013) Laura Harmon, USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship said: “We are […]
[…]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 from being a […]
[…]in this plan, there also must be provisions made for vulnerable students who may still have health concerns in the autumn. We are also very supportive of aspects of blended learning – such as recorded lectures – being retained into the future for those who need them, such as students with disabilities and those with caring responsibilities. “And while we are as glad as anyone to see the optimism in this document, we have seen in the past 15 months how quickly things can change and will be seeking details of what will happen if the public health situation does […]
[…]is immediately needed in the following areas: Grants Fees Housing Access & Inclusion Equality Health (mental & sexual) Action on Climate Change Yesterday’s lobby day saw over 60 student 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 […]
[…]said: “The main aim of today’s initiative is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly men’s mental health. Studies find that 8 out of 10 deaths by suicide are male, that is 80%. We need to talk about mental health to break down the stigma show the supports available for students both inside and outside of college. Mental health is something that affects us all. College is a fun time but also a lot of stress and pressure can be put on students during their time in college. It’s important that students realise that it’s good to talk about […]
[…]and sometimes external organisations to roll out Welfare campaigns around mental health, sexual health, physical health. Other areas include; accommodation, finances, consent, drugs & alcohol and other addictive behaviours, body positivity, eating disorders and bullying & cyberbullying. Chairs the Welfare working group at National Council to address local and national issues and plan national welfare campaigns. Sits on the following boards: Student Affairs Ireland, National Advisory Committee for Ending Sexual Violence and Harassment in Higher Education, SUSI Advisory Committee, THEA Promoting Consent and Prevention Sexual Violence Steering Group, alongside other national committees. Vice President for Campaigns: Main responsibility for organising […]
[…]of stress placed on students, and make sure to have frank and open conversations about mental health on campuses. “A healthy daily schedule doesn’t require intense blocks of studying. Instead, we’re encouraging students to make sure they have regular meals, sleep and exercise and to be aware of nationwide support services like BodyWhys. It’s important to note once students finish exams or assignments, sticking to a healthy and structured routine is important to prevent developing an eating disorder. Recognising that students who feel they may have an eating disorder can and do recover with support from friends without any judgement […]
[…]of stress placed on students, and make sure to have frank and open conversations about mental health on campuses. “A healthy daily schedule doesn’t require intense blocks of studying. Instead, we’re encouraging students to make sure they have regular meals, sleep and exercise and to be aware of nationwide support services like BodyWhys. It’s important to note once students finish exams or assignments, sticking to a healthy and structured routine is important to prevent developing an eating disorder. Recognising that students who feel they may have an eating disorder can and do recover with support from friends without any judgement […]
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PleaseTalk – You, Me and our Mental Health The annual PleaseTalk Forum will take place on Friday, June 14th 2013. This year’s forum is being hosted in Gleeson Hall, DIT Kevin Street. Student , Students’ Union Officers & Student Support Staff are encouraged to attend this event, which is free of charge, to discover more about the PleaseTalk message and how students, staff and the Students’ Union can work together to develop a strong PleaseTalk presence on your campus. It will include a panel discussion entitled: ‘Opportunities and Challenges in Promoting Mental Health in Third Level‘. For more information on the […]
[…]section you can put in ‘USI’, then they can identify you coming via USI. USI Mental Health Directory For a list of college support services please visit: […]
[…]crisis, its campaigns for gender and marriage equality and its efforts to promote mental and sexual health. We hope that UCD students will join these campaigns again in the future, as their input has been profoundly influential over the years. Last Autumn, the students of Trinity College chose to remain affiliated to USI and tomorrow we hope to hear that students in NUI Maynooth will do the same. We will also hear whether students in Dublin City University have chosen to rejoin USI, after a decade of disaffiliation. As students go through difficult times, never has the value of unity […]
[…]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 mental health. Please make sure to reach out to friends and stay in touch, we all need to support each other now. There are resources available 24/7 […]
[…]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 mental health. Please make sure to reach out to friends and stay in touch, we all need to support each other now. There are resources available 24/7 […]
[…]types of women for the purposes of one-night stand sex. The article promotes risky and reckless sexual behaviour and has the capacity to distress readers. It’s not acceptable and isn’t something USI could ignore. We’re delighted that the reaction to the article was so effective that College Times was forced to remove the article from their website. In commentary to newspapers today, Joe O’Connor, USI President, gave the following statement: “The article was crass and insensitive in the extreme and will have been read by many as misogynistic, predatory nonsense. USI wholeheartedly condemns the article and we’re delighted that so […]
[…]she welcomed the enhanced supports available to students in light of COVID-19, on mental health and a renewed focus on preventing sexual assault on campus, she concluded that more needed to be done to address the central issue of access for all students who would benefit from Higher Education – and that this would be best addressed in a publicly funded higher education system. ENDS Notes: The Education Futures Coalition, formerly known as the Coalition for Publicly Funded Higher Education, is a collaboration between IFUT, SIPTU, FORSA, USI, ISSU and the […]
[…]Too many lives have been lost through suicide in Ireland. Through this initiative and our mental health campaigns throughout the semester, we aim to empower students to look after their mental health and seek support before it becomes a crisis. Talking is a strength, not a […]
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[…]go up, 63% of students said they won’t be able to attend college. Jill O’ Herlihy from Mental Health Ireland said “Financial struggles affect everybody, especially students. We need to be mindful that when these issues arise, we act upon it instead of sweeping them under the carpet. The most important thing to review is how you’re handling this stress, to make sure everything else in your life reduces it, such as sleeping for 8 hours, eating healthy and exercising”. Full survey results 95.3% of students think the cost of college is too high 73.1% of students said the […]
[…]will not tolerate discrimination based on gender, civil status, family status, age, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion, membership of the Traveller community, gender expression, gender identity, country of origin, socio-economic background. The first nine grounds are those specifically mentioned by the Equality Acts but discrimination can occur also on other characteristics. The Union of Students in Ireland reserves the right to add to these groups at any time. 3. Taking Action: The Union of Students in Ireland will seek to ensure that other companies from whom it has contracted to receive goods and services are aware that this policy is […]
[…]is extremely stressful. 57% of nurses said that placement had a negative impact on their physical health, while 52% said it had a negative impact on their mental […]
[…]million a year to maintain core counselling services and to implement the National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework. However, USI says Government needs a plan to increase this funding by €11.5 million in order to reach safe counsellor to student ratios to combat the mental health crisis currently affecting our young people, including our students. This crisis was shown in the Jigsaw My World 2 survey where 8,290 of those surveyed were students, and of the over 8,000 student respondents, 10 per cent said that they had attempted suicide. Of those who tried to take their own lives, 54 per cent […]
[…]abuse amongst young people in this country. Abuse of alcohol can lead to mental and physical health problems amongst other issues. USI want to ensure that students’ health is at the forefront of any campaigns we run/support in the future. Accordingly, It has been determined we are not best served doing that in partnership with Drinkaware”. USI look forward to working independently with similarly positioned bodies and organisations as ourselves, in the future. Notes: Read the Irish Time’s coverage here and the letter sent to Meas chief executive Fionnuala Sheehan here. Take part in the Newstalk Poll: Do you think alcohol […]
[…]in the Russian parliament. The legislation prevents the promotion of “non-traditional sexual relationships” and “prohibiting propaganda of homosexuality to minors”. Speaking today Carol-Anne O’Brien, Advocacy Officer with BeLonG To Youth Services said, “We wish to express our strong support for LGBT groups and young people in Russia as they face this worsening situation. “We were shocked to view videos which have spread online, involving the luring, torturing and forced outing of LGBT youth. “Many of these young people have been traumatised, ostracised and some media are claiming that people have been murdered.” Spectrum Human Rights reports that the gay teenager […]
[…]for long periods while waiting to be tested for the virus, which is putting extra strain on the health services. Lorna said: “Like other frontline health workers, student nurses have to use the general public HSE line to get tested for COVID-19. We reiterate GPs and frontline health workers’ calls for a specific line of testing to be introduced for student nurses and other health workers so that they don’t have to be out of work unnecessarily while waiting to be tested. “We are also calling for student nurses, and other healthcare workers, to get extra paid sick leave if they contract […]
[…]is extremely stressful. 57% of nurses said that placement had a negative impact on their physical health, while 52% said it had a negative impact on their mental […]
[…]vote yes. As we mark three years since we repealed the eighth and look ahead to the review of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018, USI is calling for the review to be open and transparent and allow for the perspectives of those most affected by this legislation to be at the centre of the process. USI Vice President for Equality and Citizenship, Marie Lyons said: “Students played an important role in repealing the Eighth Amendment and we are disappointed that three years on, we still have a number of people who are unable to access vital […]
[…]Health Services, between November 9 and 13, urging third level students to talk about mental health while enjoying a cup of tea with someone. Thousands of tea packs will be distributed across college campuses nationwide which will also include tips on how to start conversations about mental health and useful support service contacts. The ‘Chats for Change’ Campus Road show will run from 10am-3pm from November 9 to 13 in campuses across Ireland such as DIT, Maynooth, Athlone IT, CIT and UCC. “More than a third of students regularly feeling down is an alarming percentage.” Kevin Donoghue, Union of Students […]
[…]International Overdose Awareness Day, and USI is working with An Roinn Sláinte (The Department of Health) and drugs.ie to promote ways to keep our friends safe in the event of a drugs overdose. By knowing the signs and seeking prompt medical help for someone experiencing an overdose, you could save a friend’s life. We’ve teamed up to prepare new resources and information for students to help. You can see the new resources at […]
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[…]save money on a doctor’s visit with VideoDoc.” Mr Kerrigan went on to say, “USI Healthy Living Week is part of our month long health and wellbeing campaign making sure students are educated and enabled to look after their own physical and mental health. This no-cost service will help students, and save them money.” VideoDoc is an Irish company that offers online doctor services in Ireland and the UK. Using the VideoDoc App or the VideoDoc website, patients with a desktop or mobile device can log on from anywhere, including their sickbed, office or hotel room and see a doctor. […]
[…]What we’re also seeing is an increase in obesity amongst children and a huge rise in health risk factors amongst young people. SpunOut.ie’s campaign aims to equip young people, where they are, with the tools to make easy health choices” says Ian Power, executive director of […]
[…]infected. “We are asking the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), the Minister for Health and the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government to ensure access to testing, effective contact tracing and proper accommodation arrangements to address the health needs of those in overcrowded […]
[…]required accommodation and support services that will keep students in education, such as mental health facilities, will only result in students struggling through college, deferring places or dropping out. USI Deputy President and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Bryan O’Mahony said: “Simply increasing third-level places gives Government the chance to have positive headlines on CAO day, but without proper accommodation provision and adequate investment in colleges and universities, it is not going to achieve the aim of opening-up access to third-level qualifications. “When a student can’t afford their next meal or needs to work long hours to meet their college […]
[…]funding for student mental health and wellbeing services is vital to start to address the mental health difficulties faced by students that were already an issue before COVID and have only worsened as a result of the pandemic. We also welcome the announcement of €31 million to provide free contraception for women between the ages of 17 and 25. However, there needs to be clarity that this health package will be accessible and will be available to trans and non-binary people.” You can read the USI Pre-Budget Submission […]
[…]accommodation and postgraduate paid for.” More than 1,000 nurses are set to retire from the health service by next June. Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation General Secretary Liam Doran spoke about how the hospital overcrowding situation is affected by the amount of staff. Mr Doran said that the INMO wants extra beds to be opened but the hospital does not have adequate staff to deal with the current beds and cannot open the new beds without additional staff to service them. “Many student nurses feel a better life awaits them abroad.” USI President Kevin Donoghue said “Countries with a huge […]
[…]accommodation and postgraduate paid for.” More than 1,000 nurses are set to retire from the health service by next June. Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation General Secretary Liam Doran spoke about how the hospital overcrowding situation is affected by the amount of staff. Mr Doran said that the INMO wants extra beds to be opened but the hospital does not have adequate staff to deal with the current beds and cannot open the new beds without additional staff to service them. “Many student nurses feel a better life awaits them abroad.” USI President Kevin Donoghue said “Countries with a huge […]
[…]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 development of eating disorders and related problems. To facilitate access to the regular health care system (e.g. counselling, treatment) and thus limit the time between occurrence of symptoms and access to professional help. Watch the ProYouth video below, Refresh page if the […]
[…]campaigns for the third level sector. The Vice President for Welfare attended launch of mental health first aid with Minister for Mental Health and Older People Helen McEntee and Anne O Connor from HSE alongside head of training for Mental Health First Aid Ireland. The Vice President for Equality and Citizenship was invited to address the annual conference of the National Learning Network and Rehab group on Tuesday 5th of April in the Gibson, Dublin. She spoke about the common platform our organisations work on in relation to education and the progression and successful transition of learners, regardless of disability […]
[…]February. The evaluation is a process in a long-term partnership with the HSE in promoting sexual health at third-level USI has been accepted as a partner in the Healthy Ireland framework and will be part of the new network initiative. This will be launched in Dublin Castle next Thursday. The Vice President for Campaigns met with SIPTU to discuss workers’ rights, Early Education and began plans for the next academic year. USI have are now in the finals for 3 awards at the Social Media Awards Ireland for: Best Non-Profit/Organisation Twitter account, Best Business Twitter Campaign and […]
[…]and on the legislative side is currently in lobbying efforts to get the Committee for Select Health to table amendments that would overturn this decision. Amendments tabled thus far have been ruled out of order by the chair. International students already pay extortionate fees to study in this country and should be able to avail of insurance that meets their needs and doesn’t put them out of pocket by hundreds of euros. Moreover, the insurance cover currently used by students go beyond health and also includes repatriation, but under this judgement there will be no repatriation covered, meaning that […]
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[…]to other health issues that we will be able to make recommendations for future support and health service development to encourage those who are worried about their eating habits to talk to health professionals. How will the data be used? The data will be used to inform future Bodywhys service developments and health promotion activities as well as making recommendations to clinicians as to how best to encourage young adults to approach them with any concerns they have about their eating habits. What will happen if I decide to take part in the research study? If you decide to take […]
[…]and disappointing for students, USI and Students’ Unions across the island to see the public health guidelines being broken in such a manner by a small minority of students. USI notes the statement from the Irish Universities Association thanking the vast majority of students who are abiding by the public health guidelines and reiterating an appeal to all students to continue to abide by the guidelines. USI and its members also call on all students to stand together with the vast majority of their friends and peers who are doing the right thing in these difficult times. It is hard, but there […]
[…]and disappointing for students, USI and Students’ Unions across the island to see the public health guidelines being broken in such a manner by a small minority of students. USI notes the statement from the Irish Universities Association thanking the vast majority of students who are abiding by the public health guidelines and reiterating an appeal to all students to continue to abide by the guidelines. USI and its members also call on all students to stand together with the vast majority of their friends and peers who are doing the right thing in these difficult times. It is hard, but there […]
[…]offer practical sign posting for students. Our Little Things campaign to promote positive mental health was designed to remind all of us of the simple and powerful day-to-day steps that we can all take to protect our own mental health, and support the people we care about. It’s vitally important that students remember that sleeping and eating well, taking regular breaks and talking about their problems are all proven to have a positive impact on their mental health. This initiative forms part of our efforts to deliver on our commitments under Connecting for Life, the national suicide prevention strategy.” USI […]
[…]safer from COVID-19?” “There is mention in the announcement of support for student mental health initiatives and our information is that three million euro has been ring-fenced for this aspect, which is very necessary and welcome. “However, it must be made clear if this is in addition to the two million euro that was announced in the last budget and we need clarity on how that two million has been used to support student mental health.” The USI has also called for an urgent reduction to the Student Contribution Charge in light of the economic difficulties facing students who lost […]
[…]in the region. Background College students are an important population when it comes to mental health and suicide prevention. Peak onset for mental health problems occur in early adulthood with 75% of difficulties occurring before the age of 25. This high-risk period coincides with entrance into and time spent in third level education. 1. USI Mental Health Project App Development Introduction The USI have been granted funding to create an app to enable students have a conversation around mental health. Ask Content will be written by USI however we are looking for someone to design and develop the app. The […]
[…]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 […]
[…]end the repression of these protests and fully investigate the acts of violence and allegations of sexual harassment carried out by state forces. The Citizenship Act which has led to these protests is a law discriminating against those fleeing persecution. It fits in wider with the aims of the Government which seeks to bring forward an ideology making life impossibly difficult for Muslims and other minority communities in India. The Office of the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights stated the law was “fundamentally discriminatory in nature.” We call on the government of India to listen to the protests of […]
[…]end the repression of these protests and fully investigate the acts of violence and allegations of sexual harassment carried out by state forces. The Citizenship Act which has led to these protests is a law discriminating against those fleeing persecution. It fits in wider with the aims of the Government which seeks to bring forward an ideology making life impossibly difficult for Muslims and other minority communities in India. The Office of the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights stated the law was “fundamentally discriminatory in nature.” We call on the government of India to listen to the protests of […]
[…]doesn’t have gender equality. We have a terrible track record of protecting women’s rights and health in Ireland – particularly the rights and health of pregnant women. We only have to look at our recent past to see this. Take the Magdalene Laundries for example; women being forced to give up their children to strangers, our record of putting women into psychiatric hospitals and the horror of symphisiotomy procedures that women had to undergo. And we will never, ever allow ourselves to forget what happened to Savita Hallapanavar. Nothing can ever give back those 21 years of inaction. And while […]
[…]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 available in health clinics across campuses and from local GPs. There are also free rapid HIV testing in locations such as Panti Bar in Dublin; GOSHH in Limerick, Chambers nightclub in Cork and a walk-in clinic in UCH Galway. STI screenings only take five minutes and are essential for a healthy sex […]
[…]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 available in health clinics across campuses and from local GPs. There are also free rapid HIV testing in locations such as Panti Bar in Dublin; GOSHH in Limerick, Chambers nightclub in Cork and a walk-in clinic in UCH Galway. STI screenings only take five minutes and are essential for a healthy sex […]
[…]met the National Office for Suicide Prevention with a view to increasing student access to mental health support training. The Vice President for Campaigns met with SIPTU to advance the Early Education and Care campaign. Early Education and Care students now have full SIPTU membership if they sign up. SIPTU Reps with Students’ Union Officers will be holding meetings across the country to inform, engage and mobilise students through forums, petitions and a survey being issued in the coming weeks to inform the campaign. You can learn more about the campaign here: www.bigstart.ie The Vice President for Campaigns attended the […]
[…]and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, to implement the World Professional Association for Transgender Healthcare (WPATH) Standards of Care, which follow an informed consent model. There must be a stark improvement in the standards of Trans healthcare in Ireland, starting with following the informed consent model and allowing GPs to provide Hormone Replacement Therapy to their […]
[…]return to a pre-pandemic format, but in-person graduations are possible within the current public health guidelines and with graduations not due to take place for a number of weeks or months, the guidelines may be eased further. As you know, after years of hard work and sacrifice, graduations are hugely important to students and their families and that is the case more so than ever after the difficulties of the last 18 months. There has been a significant uptake of vaccinations in Ireland, including among the younger cohorts, who make up a large section of our student populations. This should […]
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[…]and Threshold have also highlighted concerns about students’ ability to comply with public health advice amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr McCafferty said: “Currently government advice is that letting activity is not essential. So moving into a new home with people who are not already members of your household would be contrary to public health advice at the moment. While this may have changed by September, social distancing measures are likely to still be in place. This raises concerns around purpose-built student accommodation and its suitability in this regard – how can social distancing be adhered to in shared bedrooms, kitchens, […]
[…]Housing for the SUSI Grants for cut fees for action on climate emergency for better mental health services USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said: “Students have been the leaders of change when it came to the Repeal the 8th and Marriage Equality Referendums, both of which changed our society for the best. It is important that students of all ages are on the register of electors and use their vote to better their lives. The reality is that we are in the midst of an accommodation crisis, we have never seen students pay this much for rent, our students are paying […]
[…]have said, student safety is our main priority and we will always support and promote the public health advice. As most college activity will now take place online for the coming weeks, and with the risk of that period being extended, Government must act immediately to protect and support student renters. Exactly one month ago today, USI called on Government to introduce six emergency provisions to ensure student renters were not hit by a repeat of what happened in March when colleges and universities closed and deposits and prepaid rent were not returned and students had to fight for on-campus accommodation […]
[…]Care students have collectively written to CORU, the Ministers for Further and Higher Education; Health; and Social Protection, Quality and Qualifications Ireland and the Higher Education Institutions urging them to convene discussions with a view to mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on social care students. Social Care students across the country are facing difficulties in securing and completing placement due to the current COVID-19 restrictions. This is likely to result in many students failing to meet the 800 practical placement hours required by the relevant professional body, CORU meaning that many students may be forced to complete placement over summer, […]
[…]barriers to accessing and remaining in third-level education. It also impacts on the mental health and academic output of students, and increases pressures on families already struggling with recessionary times but determined to keep their sons and daughters in third-level education. The Union of Students in Ireland, in partnership with Amárach Research, will be carrying out a survey of third-level students throughout the summer months, collecting data on the financial situation of students and their families at present and how this is impacting on their mental health. It is clear that the cashflow difficulties and financial difficulties facing the students […]
[…]the various options laid out before them ensuring the best possible result for women’s health and reproductive choices here in Ireland. Today is an important day signifying a time for change in Ireland. The students of Ireland are ready for a referendum and we are calling on the political leadership to respond to the Citizens’ Assembly recommendation for a referendum on this issue and to take heed of their recommendations for legislation. If our leadership do not hear our call, we will come knocking and marching for an answer”. USI President Annie Hoey also stated, “since 1983 USI have been […]
[…]body of psychological counsellors in third level colleges, with a message about mental health and the counselling supports available to you during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk […]
[…]like all events at this time, was cancelled in line with Government guidelines to protect public health. President, Lorna Fitzpatrick has been speaking with SU Presidents from across the island to ensure the union is well-informed on all the issues facing students during these unprecedented times. Lorna explained that everyone in the USI is hugely disappointed that Congress could not go ahead this week. She said: “Congress is a really important week for the student movement in Ireland and the USI. We bring over 300 student leaders together to elect the executive, debate policy and plan our programme of work […]
[…]the joint statement released by the National Women’s Council of Ireland with Ruhama and the UCD Sexual Exploitation Research Programme in relation to Geila’s death. USI is committed to raising awareness of violence against women at a national level. Last week at Comhdháil, motions were passed remembering victims of femicide, as well as to continue our fight for sex workers rights. The sex work motion also mandates the 2023-2024 Coiste Gnó to examine and review our relationships with organisations who hold harmful views and prejudices of sex work and sex workers. Additionally, USI is committed to lobbying against the Nordic […]
[…]health counselling, and to ring-fence €3m for student counselling and supports per annum. Mental health support is another key factor in retention for third-level, as 27% of students who used counselling services indicated counselling was a factor in their retention.” The union continues to campaign on other Budget 2018 issues like the funding of higher education. USI are calling on the Government to rule out any possible introduction of an income contingent loan scheme, and to reduce the Student Contribution Charge by a minimum of €250 with the aim of investing €1.26bn into higher education over the next decade in […]
[…]was the only sitting member of the team for run for election. Due to the on-going public health restrictions, USI Congress was held via Zoom with delegates voting online for the 2021-2022 Executive Team and numerous policies and motions. Congress was also streamed live on Facebook so students could watch the action as it happened. Speaking after her election, Clare explained that there is a lot of work ahead for the union as it seeks to get students back on campus is a safe manner in the new academic year and deals with the fall-out of COVID-19 for students across […]
[…]Blood Transfusion Service) recommendation to move to a one year deferral period for gay and bisexual men. She said that while progress has been made in the MSM blood ban area, Ireland still has a long way to go to achieve LGBT equality. “Ireland has made huge progress in the past year in areas like LGBT rights, equality and mental health,” Hoey said. “But it still has a lot further to go and for the coming year I hope to make USI a key player in further […]
[…]to the wider population 5) Provide specialised training around eating disorders for mental healthcare professionals Finally, it cannot be ignored that mental health only receives approximately six per cent out of the overall health budget, compared to the international standard of 12 per cent. USI strongly believes that mental health is fundamental to our overall wellbeing and should receive the attention, care and funding to recognise its importance in people’s lives. We ask that you take the complexities of eating disorders and the neglect in providing adequate services seriously. We trust you as Ministers to act on this matter with […]
[…]emotional stories from students who have been vilified, bullied and marginalised because of their sexual orientation. This decision should pave the way for them being recognised as equal citizens in the eyes of the law and then, perhaps, in the eyes of all their peers. We cannot and will not become complacent now. We must ensure that students are ready to translate their support for marriage equality into a positive referendum result. USI has a critical role to play in this and is currently preparing a national student voter registration drive. USI registered over 15,000 students prior to the General […]
[…]incest or fatal fetal abnormalities, it clearly does not go far enough to adequately protect the health and wellbeing of women. This State will now enshrine into our legislation an approval of the continued outsourcing of this issue to the UK and beyond, and while this is a vital and necessary step, it is far from the final one required. A liberalised abortion regime is often spoken of in this debate in a highly negative way, but there is nothing particularly liberal about trusting the women of this country and allowing them free rein over their own bodies. […]
[…]or quality control and the purity, strength and effects vary widely from batch-to- batch. Mental health problems can be caused or worsened by these drugs and if you do decide to use them then do not mix with alcohol or other drugs and do not take them alone. If a friend is suffering an adverse reaction seek help and contactthe emergency services immediately.” Copies of the new posters are available on www.drugs.ie. It is important to remember that if you have physical or mental health problems such as epilepsy, heart problems, asthma, depression, panic or anxiety attacks drug use is more […]
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[…]Denise Glover Public Relations and Communications: Martina Genockey Mental Health Programme Manager: Sarah Hughes National Student Engagement Programme Manager: Oisín Hassan National Student Engagement Programme Training Co-Ordinator: Dr Jeffrey […]
[…]need. It also means we are prevented from understanding the voices of those experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts (Taking Control of Your Mental Health, Shine, 2009). We must recognise the need to engage with young people where they are looking for information and support that is outside of the school/college setting. According to the My World Survey, 77% of young people surveyed reported they would be likely to use the internet as a source of help. In addition to this the young people were asked about ways that help them cope when things are tough. The most frequently […]
[…]country. There will be workshops on time management, effective studying, and minding your mental health, all tailored to the needs of mature students. Most importantly there will be opportunities to chat and share experiences with mature students form other colleges! The day also includes tea/coffee and lunch. Registration is at […]
[…]set up a review of the effects of the reduction of this incremental credit on the ability of the Health Services to retain and recruit qualifying nurses and Midwives.” Phil Ni Sheaghdha, the Director of Industrial Relations at the INMO, said. “There is a lot more work to be done for student nurses and midwives. The unions are completely committed to fully engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Department of Health in order to secure incremental credit for these categories of nurses, to ensure they receive the same benefit as those qualifying in 2016.” The […]
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[…]families. One of the key findings of the ‘My World Survey’, a national study of youth mental health published earlier this year, was that young adults’ experiences of financial stress are strongly related to their mental health and well-being. The USI Student Finance Guide contains expert advice on managing a budget, managing debt and maintaining savings. It also includes advice on what financial supports are available to students and families, as well as a best practice guide on choosing financial services that meet the individual needs of a student. Easy-to-use budget sheets are included, enabling students to keep weekly or monthly budgets […]
[…]education because it benefits every sector of society – the economy, employment, culture, health, science, tech and transport, and the government not prioritising it with sufficient funding stunts the development of a generation. “Any investment in education is something USI welcomes and the small steps in Budget 17 are in the right direction but are hugely insufficient in the long-term.” Annie Hoey, USI President, said. “The government failing to prioritise adequate funding for third level education is the government putting barriers to the futures and potential of thousands of students. There are some positives in the Budget but the funding […]
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[…]national level. We heard on the ground that students knew the work of USI, the work done on mental health and our fight against students loans. I look forward continuing our fight for publicly-funded higher education with MSU and to campaign for stipends for their student teachers while on placement. Together, we are indeed stronger”. Speaking at the count today, referendum campaign led and current Maynooth University student Ciarán Watts said, “It’s absolutely brilliant to re-affirm our membership with USI. I’m absolutely delighted that the work that USI has done and plans to do is recognised by the students. Maynooth students […]
[…]during the pandemic when they had to leave, or did not require, student accommodation as public health measures were rolled out. The bill was tabled by Sinn Fein on behalf of USI and signed by 56 opposition TDs who along with student representatives, lobbied Government to pass the bill. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said: “Up to now, students have been expected to pay three, six and nine months in advance for student accommodation. Many students have to work while in college to pay their rent and just don’t have access to this kind of money up front, meaning they miss […]
[…]earlier this month. At the National University of Galway, we were accompanied by the Environmental Health and Safety Manger Lorraine Rushe who said: “This is the second year that this campaign has been run in NUI Galway and it has been a huge success. It creates awareness and empowers the students to take responsibility for the way in which they live and encourages them to reduce their impact on the environment and associated costs. We can all learn from these initiatives and it is by getting students and staff to engage that we will start to see how small changes in the […]
[…]to create real support for young people to improve their well being and strengthen their mental health. In the pre-budget submission USI also proposes that the government invests in third-level mental health counselling and supports which will cost €5 million per annum. “Hundreds of thousands of students and their families are extremely concerned about the ever-rising cost of third-level education.” USI President, Annie Hoey, said. “Dramatic increases in accommodation costs, a shortage in appropriate part-time work, and the burden of €3,000 fees contribute to a burdensome annual cost of around €11,000 to attend third-level, according to Campus Life. Against a […]
[…]Centers and Networks have been doing over the decades to drive forward cultural change through sexual health awareness campaigns, consent education via consent workshops, offering disclosure training, coordinating rallies and protests to stand in solidarity with survivors and lobbying for policy development, both on a local and national level. Comhdháil Therefore Mandates: The Vice President for Welfare and the Vice President for Equality and Citizenship to coordinate a workshop like the SafeTalk workshops in conjunction with any relevant organisations to roll out nationwide.” 2022 WEL 11: Community Action Tenants Union Proposed by UCC Students’ Union Comhdháil Notes: Community Action […]
[…]to increase efficiency of systems. 15 WE 3 Consent Congress applauds the success of sexual health and empowerment campaigns such as SHAG week, which promotes a healthy attitude towards sex with a holistic approach. Congress agrees that while sexual consent is included as a part of SHAG week, it is time that the USI rolled out a comprehensive national student consent campaign separately. Congress Mandates that the Vice President for Welfare, Campaigns and Equalities and Citizenship create a national consent campaign. That is gender neutral in approach and separate to SHAG week. Congress Further Mandates the USI President and Vice […]
[…]while supporting family and friends who are more vulnerable. Some 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 […]
[…]democracy. “Our main concern with TTIP is that its primary aim is to open up Europe’s public health services to American corporations, which could mean the privatisation of the HSE.” Kevin Donoghue, USI president, said. “TTIP’s regulatory convergence agenda is to bring EU food safety standards closer to the US. The US has a lot less strict regulations than the UK does. 70% of all processed food in America now contains genetically modified (GM) ingredients, compared to the EU which allows almost no GM foods. US meats, such as beef, have growth hormones, which is currently banned in Europe because […]
[…]democracy. “Our main concern with TTIP is that its primary aim is to open up Europe’s public health services to American corporations, which could mean the privatisation of the HSE.” Kevin Donoghue, USI president, said. “TTIP’s regulatory convergence agenda is to bring EU food safety standards closer to the US. The US has a lot less strict regulations than the UK does. 70% of all processed food in America now contains genetically modified (GM) ingredients, compared to the EU which allows almost no GM foods. US meats, such as beef, have growth hormones, which is currently banned in Europe because […]
[…]service, which is incredibly reassuring. We want to encourage more and more students to take their health needs seriously, and use health services available to them. Online services like VideoDoc are easy to access and if a prescription is needed, then it can be sent to the nearest pharmacy.” With the academic year in full swing, videoDoc representatives are also embarking on a nationwide road trip to USI member campuses across Ireland to promote the free videoDoc access and give students a glimpse of the car they could win. The videoDoc online doctor service has been embraced by the student […]
[…]questioned their own sexuality at some point 20% of UCD students identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual 89% of UCD students feel comfortable openly stating their sexuality 91% of UCD students support full equal marriage rights for same-sex couples 82% of UCD students support full adoption rights for same-sex couples. UCDSU President Rachel Breslin said: “With 91% in support, students are united in favour of equal marriage rights for all and the hope that our friends and peers of this generation will be able to marry the person they love, regardless of sexual orientation.” USI President John Logue said: “Students […]
[…]including Club/Society of the Year, Academic Representative of the Year, Outstanding Mental Health Activism and Students’ Union Team of the Year. Commenting on the awards, USI Deputy President and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Kevin McStravock said: “The SAAIs recognise the incredible commitment of Students’ Unions, student activists and student-led organisations across Ireland in improving the lives of students, not just on campus but in wider society. Despite all the challenges COVID-19 posed for them, students have demonstrated incredible leadership in running campaigns, advocating for their peers and raising money for charity. “Those nominated this year are fantastic ambassadors, not […]
[…]of hard work and lobbying efforts by USI, we welcomed the allocation of €2 million for mental health services in campuses across the country after the publication of the USI National Report on Mental Health in Third Level Education and the €2 million additional investment to the Residential Tenancies Board is a positive step which will support the RTB to exercise its greater powers in enforcing regulations. Though this is not enough to create a sustainable future for higher education, we will continue to campaign and fight on our members behalfs until we have broken the barriers to […]
[…]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 and summer festivals looming, we want to encourage people be sensible and educated, have your celebrations end well, not in A and E or worse.” Top tips: Get educated […]
[…]to remove the Eighth Amendment from the Constitution in order to protect women’s safety, health and wellbeing. In the coming months, USI will also be registering thousands of students to vote ahead of the proposed date of May 25th. Speaking about the launch, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, “Students are behind this campaign, and are willing to show compassion by voting ‘Yes’ so people can make personal and private decisions without the fear of being charged as criminals. We must remove the Eighth Amendment, and we must accommodate students to vote. Students are overwhelmingly in favour of changing our restrictive […]
[…]need to be done in a safe manner, as is extremely important at the moment. We wouldn’t want the health of existing residents to be compromised and precautions would be […]
[…]with the national union in campaigns relating to third level funding, marriage equality and mental health awareness, among others. This positive result for USI follows referendum victories in Trinity College, NUI Maynooth, Queen’s University Belfast and DCU. John Logue, President of USI, said: “We are delighted to welcome the students of CIT back to the national union. The 7,500 voices of CITSU will now be added to the 250,000 that USI already represents, making our union an even more potent agent for progressive change in the higher education sector and society in general. The members of CITSU voted for unity […]
[…]their respective country regardless of political persuasion, religion, ethnic or cultural origin, sexual orientation or social standing. Its member organisations are also student-run, autonomous, representative and operate according to democratic principles. The aim of ESU The aim of ESU is to represent and promote the educational, social, economic and cultural interests of students at European level towards all relevant bodies and in particular the European Union, Bologna Follow Up Group, Council of Europe and UNESCO. Through its members, ESU represents over 15 million students in Europe. Activities Since decisions concerning higher education are increasingly taken at the European […]
[…]for Mental health and Older People Helen McEntee to discuss higher education, students and mental health in line with work of the Youth Mental Health Task Force. The Vice President for Welfare with the National Student Housing Executive travelled to Paris to attend and contribute to House Erasmus+ and to discuss targeted solutions at solving accommodation issues across Europe and how to support international and Erasmus students. Membership News Sanitary CarePacs in DITSU The Vice President for Equality and Citizenship launched DITSU’s #CarePac initiative this week in Bolton street, where packs with sanitary towels, pads and tampons will now be made […]
[…]without the Mumps vaccine to immediately make contact with their GP. The call comes after the Health Service Executive revealed a more than trebling of the numbers affected by the illness, which can be very serious and extremely painful – and particularly risky for young men. It’s highly infectious and spreads very rapidly through the same mechanisms as flu and the common cold Speaking after the HSE’s announcement, Greg O’Donoghue, USI’s Vice President for Welfare, said: “If you don’t know whether or not you’ve been immunised against mumps, now is the time to ask your family, or failing that, your […]
[…]against wasn’t just an education or an environmental issue. It was about preserving the health, investments, weather and wellbeing of generations to come, because climate change has a knock on affect on so many other areas. I would particularly like to commend the efforts of the students and QUB Students Union which lead to this result.” The joint statement said a timetable for completion of the review had been agreed, with recommendations on any proposed policy changes scheduled to come to the university senate on 21 June 2016. It also highlighted that the objective of the review was to ensure […]
[…]pandemic. However, the lack of detail is again seen in the commitment to “ensure that mental health supports are available for students in Higher and Further Education.” Students at both undergraduate and postgraduate level need a commitment to increase resources for mental health projects and programmes and policies to make these a central aspect of college life. There are positive plans in the Programme for Government, many that are in-line with USI policy, but we recognise that it has to be approved by the membership of the parties involved. But if the programme is approved and a government formed, they […]
[…]union in campaigns relating to graduate jobs, third level funding, marriage equality and mental health awareness, amongst numerous other campaigns. DCUSU will now have a voice in national student 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 […]
USI is proud to back the Blood For All campaign, which is calling for for an end to the ban on men who have sex with men donating blood for a year after sex. This should be done to end the unfair discrimination. However, would also help to tackle the shortage of donated blood available in Ireland right now // // // Tá AMLÉ ag tacú leis an bhfeachtas Blood For All atá ag iarraidh go gcuirfear deireadh leis an gcosc ar fir a mbíonn caidreamh collaí acu le fir eile fuil a dheonadh ar feadh bliain i ndiaidh chollaíochta. […]
[…]be put in place so another student isn’t trapped in another country, starving with their mental health suffering for 4 years. Today’s decision is a farce, and this show cannot continue.” Ibrahim Halawa is from Firhouse in Dublin. He was arrested in Cairo during a mass demonstration against the military ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood government in August 2013. He was 17-years-old at the time. His trial with 493 others has been delayed 28 times over the past 4 years. There has been no evidence implicating Mr Halawa was presented to the three-judge […]
[…]year as well as survive on a day-to-day basis over the summer. However, due to the on-going public health restrictions large numbers of students have been temporarily or permanently laid-off from jobs and have little possibility of finding other work. The USI is making urgent calls for Government to take into account the hours students will miss out on this summer when making any reforms of the criteria for receiving the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick explained: “The vast majority of students in Ireland would have taken on many more hours in employment during the summertime to […]
[…]this issue, and arguably it affects our future generations more than any other. UK Department of Health statistics show that over a quarter of those giving Irish addresses with their services are women between 18-24 years of age. Because of the reality of the Eighth Amendment, no Students’ Union has indicated that they wish to campaign to keep the Eighth Amendment. “We issued letters to all members of the Cabinet asking for a May date for referendum, and no later. A May vote will ensure thousands of young people turning 18 during their last year of secondary school can vote. […]
[…]the cost of living by controlling rent and improving social housing. Invest in Community Mental Health services. USI President Joe O’Connor said: “Now that we as a country have regained our economic sovereignty, it is time that we put an end to short-term thinking and start working towards shaping the future we want for Ireland. As the future drivers of our economic recovery, it is vital that young people and students have a say in the direction we now take. We may not have brought about the economic difficulties this country finds itself in, but we want to play our […]
[…]or educational psychologists should not also be paid during training while they support the mental health and emotional and educational needs of the most vulnerable. “There is no integrity in a system that has a 100 per cent plus pay differential between colleagues providing a similar service. An immediate plan is needed from Government detailing when, and how, they will bring this inequity to an […]
[…]take place on April 29 in the 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 […]
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[…]employment prospects for many of our generation.” Donoghue said. “JobBridge promotes unhealthy, unstable work schemes and exploits the time, energy and talent of young people. JobBridge is simply not the win-win programme it was pitched as. It’s a tax-payer scheme that allows businesses to breed inferiority complexes, poor working conditions and in turn, poor mental health such as anxiety, depression and despair in the youth.” JobBridge will be discontinued in […]
[…]deficit in Building Managers across DIT’s numerous campuses, a lack of clerical staff in student health centres, and vacancies in key lecturing posts. Síona Cahill, USI President, expressing her backing for DITSU’s actions to highlight this staffing shortage said, “Cutting library opening hours and threatening the future of smaller campus libraries will have a huge impact on students who need these services most, such as part-time and mature students, those who work or commute during the day, and those who do not have the equipment, books, or workspace available to them in their own homes or accommodation. “It is imperative […]
[…]up to another Irish student stranded abroad, starving in a cell in another country as their mental health crumbles.” Ibrahim Halawa is from Firhouse in Dublin. He was arrested in Cairo during a mass demonstration against the military ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood government in August 2013. He was 17-years-old at the time. His trial with 493 others has been delayed 28 times over the past 4 years. There has been no evidence implicating Mr Halawa was presented to the three-judge […]
[…]places huge stress and pressure on students and can have a significant impact on their mental health. The long wait for results, and the short turnaround to the new academic year, just creates more stress for them. Securing accommodation has become almost impossible for so many students and this just makes it even harder for first years. A longer lead in time to the academic year would give students more security and time to plan and budget for the year ahead. Yesterday’s announcement gives students just one more week than last year to sort out where they’re going to live. […]
[…]President Michael Kerrigan said, “What we have is effectively a repeal of the Eighth Amendment. Healthcare has no place in the constitution, and we will remain cautious of the wording of the referendum bill to see what the enabling clause will look like. We will be working closely with our allies to ensure we’re not actually taking two steps back while trying to move forward ” Mr Kerrigan added, “Millions of our young people have not had the opportunity to vote on this issue, and arguably it affects our future generations more than any other. UK Department of Health statistics […]
[…]and networking. Topics covered will include effective budgeting, looking after your mental health, time management, running a mature students society on campus and will be a great opportunity for mature students to share their experiences and meet other mature students from around the country. Since Budget 2011, over 7,000 mature students have had their maintenance grants cut by 60%. These students automatically received the non-adjacent rate of the grant in recognition of the substantially higher cost of living for those supporting children, partners or elderly parents. The savagae cuts to the grant have made further education cost-prohibitive for prospective mature […]
[…]lost jobs, had to move home and are trying to keep up their study online and keep themselves healthy while supporting family and friends who are more vulnerable. Some students who have had to move home have underlying health conditions themselves and recognise it is safer for them to be able to self-isolate away from their shared student accommodation. Some students had very tough decisions to 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.” […]
[…]couches or in hostels. There is a real danger that this will negatively impact on retention rates, health and the education of students – and it requires immediate attention from the Government.” Fine Gael’s Damien English said the lack of funding due to the inherited budget is a problem, but supported the USI pre-budget 2015 objectives. He emphasised that executing the objectives, such as increasing student grants and accommodation are long-term goals, and not solvable immediately. Speaking about the meeting, USI President Kevin Donoghue said: “The cost of college is €11,000 per year, which means that college courses can cost […]
[…]COVID-19 restrictions. This lack of rights has caused huge issues for students during the public health restrictions with students losing 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 […]
[…]Goals. Congress also mandates The VP for Equality & Citizenship to work with student health groups such as Students4VaccineEquity on vaccine and medicine equity. 15 IA 1: Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership Reapproved 2018 and 2021 Congress notes with concern: The on-going negotiations between the European Union and the United States in relation to the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, and the potential impact that it could have on Irish higher education, democracy and wider society. Congress does not support: The lowering of any EU standards in regards to the environment, food safety, animal welfare and workers’ rights. In […]
[…]just beans) etc Get the phone numbers for a few taxi companies, the college switchboard, college health/medical centr3e, chaplain, local emergency services and Student Union officers. Familiarise yourself with local surroundings; bus route, supermarkets […]
[…]actions or attending protests to support the Black Lives Matter movement, please follow the public health guidance. Maintain social distancing, use face masks and ensure you follow respiratory hygiene. If you are, or will be in contact with anyone who is immunocompromised, you can still support these actions online by sharing petitions, donating, or having conversations with friends and family. If anyone is affected by this, please seek support from your Students’ Union and services in your […]
[…]we advise people not to use, however 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 […]
[…]Ensuring access to abortion regardless of circumstance is a priority for USI. This is a matter of healthcare not being enshrined in our constitution, and put back into our own hands.” The following key findings emerged: 60% of those who completed the poll indicated a preference to vote ‘on request’ (‘without restriction as to reasons’) which mirrored the 64% of the Citizens’ Assembly Only 5% of the Citizens’ Assembly voted for access on request without any gestational limits, where 21% of respondents to Amnesty Ireland poll supported access on request without gestational limits. Support for access to abortion in cases […]
[…]right to access abortions in Ireland is very much a student issue. UK Department of Health statistics show that approximately one quarter of women who give Irish addresses when availing of abortion services in the UK are between the ages of 18-24. Irish women are more likely to receive surgical abortions. Surgical abortions are more invasive than medical abortions, which are available up to 9 weeks. The reason for this is a lack of information and also the time it takes to organise travelling to another country. This is a class issue. It costs at least €1,000 to travel to England from Ireland for […]
[…]abortion is still illegal in Ireland, even in the case of rape, incest, if there’s a risk to health or severe foetal impairment, is a violation of human rights. Repealing the 8th will restore these rights.” The result now means that UCCSU will actively engage in a local and national campaign to repeal the 8th amendment. Speaking at the count, James Upton, UCCSU Deputy President, said “this result mandates future campaigns to repeal the 8th amendment. We will now actively engage with this issue at all levels, as directed by student council.” Aidan Coffey, UCCSU President said “it’s important to […]
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[…]do I contact them? You can find the full membership of the Oireachtas Committee on Health below. You can also find TDs in your constituency here. The easiest way to contact them is via email, but you could also contact their constituency office. Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health Chair Séan Crowe – Sinn Féin (Dublin South West) Deputies Colm Burke – Fine Gael (Cork North-Central) Cathal Crowe – Fianna Fáil (Clare) David Cullinane – Sinn Féin (Waterford) Bernard Durkan – Fine Gael (Kildare North) Neasa Hourigan – Green Party (Dublin Central) Gino Kenny – Solidarity-People Before Profit (Dublin Mid-West) John Lahart – Fianna Fáil (Dublin South-West) Roisín Shortall – Social Democrats (Dublin North-West) Senators Frances Black – Independent Lorraine Clifford-Lee – Fianna Fáil Martin Conway – Fine Gael Annie Hoey – Labour […]
[…]Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Institute of Technology, Tralee Mary Brosnan Nursing and Health Care Sciences Institute of Tecnology, Tralee John Brosnan Computing Mary Immaculate College Diarmuid O’Driscoll Mathematics & Computer Studies Mary Immaculate College Mary Moloney Early Childhood Care and Education Maynooth University Frank Mulligan Experimental Physics Maynooth University Kevin Kavanagh Biology National University of Ireland, Galway Deirdre Curran School of Business & Economics and Whitaker Institute (Employment Relations) National University of Ireland, Galway Mark Lang School of Physics (Centre for Astronomy) Open Training College Raymond Watson Social Care Open Training College Alacoque McAuley Savage Social Care Royal College of […]
[…]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 still a prevalent habit among young people. We offer assistance to Students’ Unions to help them inform and educate their students about alcohol in a simple and engaging manner. These campaigns and this toolkit will help us combat a trend that can lead to depression, poverty and suicide.” The Alcohol Awareness Toolkit and associated resources can be downloaded by visiting drinkaware.ie. Some “Do”s and “Don’t”s of Alcohol Awareness Events […]
[…]cases with a negative effect on their study time and academic output. The crisis in youth mental health issues in this country is being accentuated by the financial burden which many vulnerable students are having to bear in their pursuit of a college degree. The average student maintenance grant, at €84 per week, does not even cover rental costs alone according to the figures published in this study, and does not compare favourably to the lowest rate of Jobseekers’ Allowance in this country, at €100 per week. But this is about more than vulnerable students. Parents and families up and […]
[…]and to hear how they intend to address youth issues such as employment, higher education, mental health services amongst others issues if elected. The North West European Parliament Election Hustings began last month in NUI Galway. You can listen to a recording of this hustings below. Last week the hustings continued in UCC on Wednesday April 30th, for the Southern Region. Click on the recording below to hear the event. The Dublin Region Hustings is taking place in the Science Gallery, Trinity College on May 20th. Click on the event below for details. Promote the Vote: Dublin European Parliament Hustings or book […]
[…]Support for HIV Awareness campaigns – Calls for funding and visibility on Men’s Mental Health to tackle the growing suicide rates in young males – Support for the Decriminalisation of Drugs – Support for Abortion Access in Northern Ireland, as well as support for the campagn for Marriage Equality in Northern Ireland – The USI sabbatical term begins of the 1st July Poll Results Total valid poll: 211 Quota: 106 FitzPatrick, Lorna: 121 Hassan, Oisín: 88 RoN: […]
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[…]upon the day and mark this occasion for years to come. We need to see substance dependency as a health issue and not a criminal offence and to put in place the systems in society that do that and support people to and through recovery.” Paul Duff, Project Co-Ordinator of the Recovery Academy of Ireland, which has been working with USI on this campaign, said: “The Leave a Light On campaign serves as a beacon of hope, signifying that help is available, and that people can and do recover. It gives me great pride to see well-known buildings light up […]
[…]right to access abortions in Ireland is very much a student issue. In 2011, UK Department of Health statistics show that 4,049 Irish women availed of abortion services in England and Wales. Of these women, 1,404 were between the ages of 18-24 and 2,566 of these were under the age of 30. Crucially, these figures are probably an underestimation of the true numbers as many Irish women give no Irish address for reasons of confidentiality. It costs at least €1,000 to travel to England from Ireland for an abortion, covering clinic costs, travel costs and accommodation. Students don’t have ready […]
[…]access to education through increasing SUSI grant thresholds, or improving on-campus mental health services, declaring Budget 2018 as ‘leaving students behind’. Speaking outside the Dáil, USI President Michael Kerrigan said, ‘No income-contingent student loans were announced today, but neither was any meaningful new funding model on how third-level education should be funded. A €250 decrease in fee level would come at a relatively small cost to the state, and alleviated pressure on the payment of fees that have doubled over a period of six years.’ Mr Kerrigan went on to say, ‘It hasn’t been a budget for students. It hasn’t […]
[…]providers to return prepaid rents to students who cannot live in the accommodation due to public health restrictions or other COVID-19 related reasons. The Bill would also enable students to terminate contracts on accommodation they no longer need because of COVID-19 and would provide students with access to redress for rent they are having trouble getting repaid. 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 immediately. USI Vice President for Campaigns, Craig McHugh said: “This is extremely urgent for students, they cannot wait […]
The Union of Students in Ireland is calling on Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar, to change the BTEA (Back to Education Allowance) restriction to allow more single parents to progress to third level education, like Erica Fleming, a homeless mother-of-one who was offered a place in Trinity College via the Trinity Access Programme, but who was rejected for BTEA, which she needs to attend college. USI said while the SUSI grants help so many families, and the BTEA is a vital resource for mature learners, the stark truth is that any rules that allow clearly deserving people like Erica […]
[…]of ‘An Focloir Aiteach’ as a truly defining moment for gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation in Ireland. In recent times, Ireland has developed a reputation as something of a world leader on LGBT rights, particularly with the introduction of marriage equality and our groundbreaking Gender Recognition Act. Yet how we express our identity as LGBT people and and how we express our Irish identity often seemed like separate, rather than intersecting, areas of Irish life. This list, which includes such terms as Trasinscneach (Transgender) and Neamh-dhénártha (Non-Binary), highlights the vibrancy and inclusivity of the Irish language for use […]
[…]from member organisations all across the island. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic public health measures, this year’s SUT takes place online, but the same extensive training programme remains in place. USI President, Lorna Fitzpatrick said: “We’re delighted that we’ve been able to move this event online and we hope everybody is excited and will take plenty away from it. The training covers areas such as campaigning tactics, academic representation, student finance and SUSI, postgrad experiences and events in the ‘new normal’. We’re making sure that Students’ Union officers from across the country are prepared to support all students […]
[…]many wider societal challenges, in many cases resulting in negative consequences for their mental health, drug and alcohol abuse, and increased criminal activity.” In collaboration with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU), USI will be releasing a Youth Position Paper in response to the crisis currently facing young people in Ireland in the coming weeks. This will include proposals on the Youth Guarantee as well as a best practice document on the principles of good work experience. Mr O’Connor continued: “Given the scale of the difficulties, this in itself is not the […]
[…]Chris Clifford has been elected President of the Union of Students in Ireland for 2023-2024. A Health and Leisure graduate hailing from Tralee, Chris was today elected by delegates representing students and Students’ Unions from across the island of Ireland at USI’s Comhdháil. Over 250 delegates are attending the four day congress in the Clayton Hotel, Sligo. After graduating from MTU Kerry, Chris was elected Education Officer in his Students’ Union and then went on to be elected SU President and re-elected to the position last year. Chris will take up the role with USI on July 1, along with […]
[…]to the position at the union’s Congress on Wednesday (May 27). Due to COVID-19 public health restrictions, USI Congress was held via Zoom with over 200 delegates voting online for the 2020-2021 Executive Team and numerous policies and motions. Congress was also streamed live on the USI website. There will be five new faces on the USI Executive Team for the year ahead with Clare Austick, Adam Clarke, Ciara Kealy, Megan O’Neill, and Gary Tobin being voted in by delegates. Speaking after her re-election, Lorna Fitzpatrick spoke of how, like Irish society in general, the USI will have unprecedented battles […]
[…]2018. The Wheel will judge Charity Event of the Year and Samaritans Ireland will judge the Mental Health Activism of the Year category. Representatives from colleges across the island will be in attendance. The event is taking place tonight, Thursday, April 19th in Radisson, Dublin Castle at 6:30pm. Full list of nominees and awards can be found here: […]
[…]cannabis. Respondents reported that the common reason why they do not use illegal drugs is 16% health consequences and 9% due to criminality. The most common reason why students are consuming drugs is fun (27%), curiosity (19%) and “switching off” (13%). Among the lowest is peer pressure at 6%. 35% of people that have used illegal drugs in their lifetime have sold illegal drugs 94% of people that have used drugs in their lifetime have shared drugs with another person. Under Irish law this breaks Section 15 the Misuse of Drugs Act. Click here for full survey […]
[…]LGBT+ community. Research shows that depression affects LGBT people at higher rates than the heterosexual population, and it is hoped that this initiative could help improve wellbeing too. All profits from the sale of the gloves will go to two charities. 50% of the profit will go to Aware NI and the other 50% will go to the Rainbow Project. Ruairí Mooney, who helped create the Share the gLove initiative and is a student who plays Gaelic football for Eoghan Rua, Coleraine said: “This initiative will help everyone to feel accepted and welcome into the GAA community. The Share the […]
[…]not only improve your physical well-being but it can also have a positive impact on your mental health.” Ursula Jacob, who works in the Sport Department at Waterford IT and is an All Star camogie player, “Taking time out from your study to train or play sport can release positive endorphins and allows you to de-stress from your studies. Along with that, it encourages positive interactions with your peers while also allowing you to communicate and engage with a wide variety of people. “This can have a knock on effect; not only on your daily life but also it can […]
[…]and political parties to engage with issues such as youth unemployment, the cost of living, mental health services and many others that impact on the daily lives of young people,” said Ian Power, SpunOut.ie Executive Director. Today’s calls have come as part of the Promote the Vote campaign run by the NYCI, the USI and SpunOut to encourage young voters to register and to use their vote in the upcoming local and European elections. The organisations are hosting an election hustings debate where young voters can engage with candidates in the Science Gallery, Dublin today (20.05.14), from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. […]
USI Congress has been called and will take place on 27-30 March at Treacy’s West County Hotel, Ennis, Co. […]
[…]and become even more transparent. Everything was finalised with the HSE, Think Contraception, Health Ireland and other partners on SHAG 17 before the campaign was set to launch. Vice President for Equality and Citizenship travelled to Brussels to a European Students’ Union (ESU) seminar on refugees and higher education. Watch our video for the USI elections […]
[…]USI’s proud history of campaigning for LGBT rights, including the 1993 decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland. Congress believes: That as a Union we have a responsibility to ensure that human rights are protected, not only for our members but also for our European and international counterparts. Congress is appalled: By the effect the of the “homosexual propaganda” law that has been introduced and implemented by the lawmakers of the Russian Federation. Congress notes with concern: That the Russian LGBT community is living in conditions of extreme oppression while coping with acts of violence on a daily basis. Congress is disgusted: […]
[…]should also remain open to students for vital services and needs such as libraries, health centres, food provision, essential in-person teaching, and study spaces required by students. Lorna said: “Spaces must be designated on all campuses for students to access study and to join back-to-back 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 […]
[…]BY USI CONGRESS 2017 Congress notes with deep concern the severe deterioration of the health conditions in recent weeks of Ibrahim Halawa, the Irish citizen interned in Egypt, who is currently on hunger strike. Congress is horrified by the consistently barbaric and inhumane detention of Ibrahim by the Egyptian regime during his now three year internment. Congress is disgusted by the lack of priority given by the Irish government to the detention of a young Irish citizen whose life is now in peril. Congress in its long standing support of human rights states its solidarity with Ibrahim Halawa […]
[…]free, safe and legal abortions in Ireland, at a minimum, in cases of rape, incest, risk to health or fatal foetal impairment; and to repeal the Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for the Termination of Pregnancies) Act 1995 and any related censorship laws. Legalising abortions in Ireland is critical to advancing gender equality, human rights and the position of women in Irish society. USI is calling on the next government to put this to a referendum and let the Irish people decide.” “It has been over a month since the election and we still do not have a […]
[…]amendment. The student movement has historically led the discussion on reproductive rights and healthcare in this country, and we will ensure student voices are at ballot boxes on May 25th.” Mr Kerrigan added, “No one under the age of 53 has had the opportunity to vote on this issue, and arguably it affects our future generations more than any other. UK Department of Health statistics show that over a quarter of those giving Irish addresses with their services are women between 18-24 years of age. USI will campaign for repeal of the 8th amendment in line with the expressed views […]
[…]and political parties to engage with issues such as youth unemployment, cost of living, mental health services and many others that impact on the daily lives of young people. We also call on candidates to communicate with young voters and outline what they plan to do to address the concerns and needs of young people.” Finally, the groups are also proposing the establishment of a National Voter Registration Day. Each year, thousands of potential voters miss the deadline for inclusion on the full and supplementary registers of electors. A National Voter Registration Day has been proven[1] to be successful in many […]
[…]€12,000 in debt with student loans. It has seriously impacted on my studies and my own mental health as a result of working long hours every weekend and often midweek to try to pay it back at just a minimum of €70 per week I might add”. Lauren Hayde, a 2nd year Waterford IT student, said, “The only way I would have been able to go to college was if I took out a student loan, and I did. I had to take out a €3,000 loan which just covered my accommodation for the year. I took this loan out […]
[…]€2 million funding for Student Counselling Services. According to the National Student Mental Health Report students are suffering with extreme levels of stress, anxiety and depression. This additional funding will allow Higher Education Institutions to provide additional support to students through the Student Counselling Services. The €2 million additional investment to the Residential Tenancies Board is a positive step which will support the RTB to exercise its greater powers in enforcing the Rent Pressure Zones. Students have been disproportionately affected by the Housing crisis and it is necessary that the RPZ’s are […]
[…]in Ireland too often have to occupy places that cause a threat to their physical or mental health due to defective appliances or insufficient maintenance’ states Hoey. The strategy proposes measures for revising minimum standards and suggest rolling-out an inspection programme. The already existing minimum standards seem to be very extensive, and yet they had not been followed by the landlords. Even with increased inspections, only 25% of tenancies will be monitored by 2021. Unfortunately none of those actions ensure how will the execution of the new regulations be ensured. USI believes that a national Deposit Protection Scheme is the […]
[…]in Ireland too often have to occupy places that cause a threat to their physical or mental health due to defective appliances or insufficient maintenance’ states Hoey. The strategy proposes measures for revising minimum standards and suggest rolling-out an inspection programme. The already existing minimum standards seem to be very extensive, and yet they had not been followed by the landlords. Even with increased inspections, only 25% of tenancies will be monitored by 2021. Unfortunately none of those actions ensure how will the execution of the new regulations be ensured. USI believes that a national Deposit Protection Scheme is the […]
[…]issues since the mid 1960’s. USI was heavily involved in the decriminalisation of homosexuality in 1993. USI continues to advocate for the removal of the MSM blood ban. USI is a strong advocate for Trans* rights and for the introduction of gender recognition legislation that is respectful and inclusive. USI works closely with Transgender Equality Network Ireland http://teni.ie/ and the TEA Collective http://www.transgender.ie/. In August 2012, USI mobilised a large contingent of students at the LGBT Noisehttp://lgbtnoise.ie/ March for Marriage. In 2012, USI also launched the LGBT Ally initiative, the first of its kind in Ireland. USI has been organising Pink Training since 1992. […]
[…]Privilege Pribhléid Heitrea-ghnéasach HIV (Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus) VEID (Víreas Easpa Imdhíonachta Daonna) Homophobia Homafóibe Homosexual Homaighnéasach Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Teiripe Athsholáthair Hormón Institutional Oppression Leatrom Institiúideach Intergender Idir-Inscneach Intersex Idirghnéas Lesbian Leispiach Legal Transition Trasdul Dhlíthiúil Male to Female (MTF) Fireann go Baineann (FGB) Man of transgender experience/history Fear a bhfuil taithí thrasinscneach aige Fear a bhfuil stair thrasinscneach aige Medical Transition Trasdul Leighis Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) Fir a mbíonn gnéas acu le fir (FGF) Multigender Il-inscnéach Neutrois Neodrach ó thaobh na hinscne de Non-binary Neamh-dhénártha Non-op Gan Obráid Packing Pacáil Pansexual Il-ghnéasach Passing Saorchead […]
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[…]is suspected as possible results of cyber-bullying. Following key objectives of USI’s Mental Health Strategy 2010-2013 ‘Student Lives, Minds & Wellbeing’ it is imperative that USI keeps suicide prevention as a key objective and aims to make “college communities safe and suicide aware for all students”. Although USI welcomes the introduction of the ‘Action Plan On Bullying’ – Report of the Anti-Bullying Working Group to the Minister for Education and Skills, USI notes with concern the exclusion of Third level students. USI also recognises various policies in Higher Education Institutions across Ireland in which bullying and harassment falls under e.g. […]
[…]out, ignored and rejected by the landlords. This gives rise to homelessness, overcrowding and health and safety risks with a wider impact on labour mobility and having a negative consequence on the functioning of the economy and society where purpose built accommodation can free up more housing for others in society. According to the Eurostudent Survey V Report on the Social and Living Conditions of Higher Education Students in Ireland (2013) 35% of student population lived in private landlord’s property, which constituted the main student accommodation. “The time is ripe to address the housing crisis setting a long-term goal […]
[…]in the workplace is something that must be supported, but not at the risk to student learning and health, as indicated by the report. “Congress supports this new collaboration in education, which will help to improve student conditions whilst recognising and striving for improvement in working conditions for all young workers. We will continue to work with the student movement and all affiliate unions to ensure that students and young workers can avail of quality opportunities and decent conditions in the workplace.” TUI President Joanne Irwin said, “With the extension of the Professional Master of Education (PME) – required to […]
[…]crisis in Ireland has had a negative impact on studying trends, academic performance and mental health of students. The escalating cost of rent across Ireland, due to shortages of supply and an increase in demand, is forcing some students to commit to leases 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. Speaking at the survey launch, USI President Annie Hoey said: ‘The accommodation crisis is deterring students, […]
[…]‘Sex Differences in Adaptation to Exercise,’ explains their doctoral project at the School of Health & Human Performance, Dublin City University. The video focuses on the broad area of sex-differences in adaptation to exercise, focusing on female specific considerations which we study through the lens of female rugby. Why Research Matters Video Competition 2022 – David Nolan Ailbhe McGurrin, a PhD researcher at the School of Agriculture and Food Science at University College Dublin, has been awarded the ‘Most Informative’ prize. This prize is awarded to a researcher who has communicated the nature and aim of their research project in […]
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[…]of third-level will have positive consequences for student retention, participation, and mental health, as well as raising standards of living and reducing over-dependence on part-time employment. USI proposes that the government further subsidise higher education institutions by a minimum of €17m in order to deliver a reduction in the Student Contribution Charge of at least €250. One method to fund this is to increase percentage of tax revenue as a per cent of GDP (currently at 30% to the OECD average of 34% through progressive taxation measures. This can be in the form of spending, income or revenue. If people […]
[…]where there is already a shortage in housing. This gives rise to homelessness, overcrowding and health and safety risks with a wider impact on labour mobility. Short-term solutions are needed to relieve the crisis and free-up the already overcrowded rental market. USI continues to be proactive in alleviating the negative consequences of this issue. In developing this area of work, USI is working closely with government. Purpose of Job The main focus of the role will be: Acting as project manager of the USI “Homes for Study” campaign, homes.usi.ie website and related initiatives; Supporting and coordinating activities and support for member organisations in the area of […]
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[…]students to get the phone numbers for a few taxi companies, the college switchboard, college health and medical centre, chaplain, local emergency services and Students’ Union […]
[…]out and telling their stories. We have LGBT people in all walks of life – our Minister for Health is an openly gay man; the Rose of Tralee (an icon in our culture) is herself an openly gay woman. An older family member turned to me recently and said ‘Laura – there seems to be a way more gay people these days then when I was growing up’ – And of course that’s not the case, it’s just that LGBT people are more comfortable in coming out because society is more accepting now. But that’s not to say it’s easy […]
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[…]is delighted to have so many major parental, secondary school, education, youth and mental health organisations backing our national demonstration for publicly-funded education.” USI President, Annie Hoey, said. “We are inviting the public to join in our march on the 19th October, and to echo the concerns we have on the future of third level education. Third level education is unaffordable and our universities are slipping down on the QS World University Rankings. The loan scheme option put forward in the Cassells report is unsustainable. It will increase emigration, saddle young people with a mortgage-modelled debt and deter mature and […]
[…]that ensure safe and legal access to abortion, at a minimum, in cases of rape, incest, risk to health or severe and fatal foetal impairment. USI also urges the next Government to repeal the Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for the Termination of Pregnancies) Act 1995 and any related censorship laws. The manifesto also focuses on student accommodation and is urging the next Government to prepare a further short-term solution, such as the use of NAMA-owned properties to temporarily address the student accommodation shortfall; and to amend part 3 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to include […]
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[…]Public transport 4. Postgraduate and international student supports 5. Ring-fenced mental health support funding 6. Funding for Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht (Gaeltacht placement for student teachers) USI Vice President for Campaigns, Zaid Al-Barghouthi said: “From reviewing the Summer Economic Statement released last week, we expect Budget 2024 to again contain a number of once-off measures for students and the third-level sector. While the asks we focused on for the Lobby Day and in our pre-Budget submission concentrate on getting the most for students from this once-off spending, we will also be advocating for long-term policies and core funding for long-term plans. “Various TDs and Senators who attended on Tuesday, pledged to support our asks […]
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[…]competing with those who can pay higher rents. This gives rise to homelessness, overcrowding and health and safety risks with a wider impact on labour mobility and having a negative consequence on the functioning of the economy and society where purpose built accommodation can free up more housing for others in society. Case studies collected here from University College Cork, Trinity College Dublin and NUI Galway show that accommodation services are increasingly overwhelmed with issues from students seeking accommodation in relation to: rent increases, lack of available and affordable accommodation and tenants rights. This submission discusses the work of the […]
[…]since the introduction of the ban. The Swedes have seen a change in attitude to the purchase of sexual services; strong support for the ban on purchasing sexual services (70%-80%). Furthermore, the ban has proved to be an effective deterrent to sex purchasers as surveys show decrease from 13.6% in 1996 to 7.9% in 2008. Congress fully supports: The Turn off the Red Light campaign in Ireland that is working towards criminalisation of the purchaser of sex in Ireland. Congress mandates: The Vice-President for Equality and Citizenship to work with the Turn off the Red Light campaign to further […]
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[…]United States of America, have changed their policy regarding the donation of blood by MSM donors. Sexual orientation screening negates the possibility of many potential blood donors based on outdated evidence and research. USI Congress Affirms: Where possible it is best to use existing evidence and research to inform decisions and stances upon issues. 15 NA 3 Relationships with Trades Unions Congress commends the alliance building with education trade unions by USI Officerboard the past year. Congress believes that these relationships will be invaluable not only in the context of solidarity within the education sector but also in the context […]
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[…]used to reduce public sector staffing numbers that has ended up impacting frontline education and health services unnecessarily. Congress also believes: That the Moratorium is forcing many Irish graduates, that would normally be streamed into public service, to emigrate to countries like Australia, Canada and the UK. Congress notes: USI’s policies on graduate unemployment, and the consistent campaign to create jobs for graduates in Ireland Congress mandates the President and Officer board: To call for and work towards a re-negotiation of the Public Sector Moratorium to improve prospects for employment for Irish graduates with the newly formed Government. 11 […]
The first part of a new Union of Students in Ireland campaign in response to drink and needling spiking has been launched today, with the backing of the Minister for Justice and the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. An awareness campaign that aims to equip students with the knowledge that spiking does happen, how to recognise if a drink or person has been spiked and how to help a friend that has been spiked, is being rolled out by USI and Students Unions across the island today. USI President, Clare Austick and Vice President for […]
