CIT Students’ Union Magazine Volume Eight - Issue Eight
expliCIT editorial CIT Students’ Union Rossa Ave, Bishopstown Cork, Ireland. Telephone: 021 493 3120 Fax: 021 454 5343 Email: info@expliCIT.ie
expliCIT Staff Editor - Gearóid Buckley Design & Advertising - Philip O’Reilly Contributions Brian O’Sullivan Marie-Claire Jennequin Vicky O’Sullivan
CIT Societies Chris Gibbons Philip O’Reilly
First and foremost I'd like to thank all of you who voted for me in this year's CITSU Elections, the bad news for you is that you are stuck with me again for another year and I promise I won't let you down. The position of Projects Officer comes with big boots to fill, Wez has dedicated the last two years of his life to you and I am 100% positive his insights and experience will be missed next year, hopefully he's not finished yet. He has set a standard for all Non-Sabbatical Officers to attain, which myself, John and Eoin will aim to achieve next year. I'd also like to congratulate all other candidates that have been elected. I am fully confident next year's Executive can and will deliver a representation of your views and fight for your rights.
CIT Students’ Union President - Brian O’Sullivan (supresident@cit.ie) Vice President Education - Simon Bolger (sueducation@cit.ie) Vice President Welfare - Marie Claire Jennequin (suwelfare@cit.ie) Entertainments Officer - Caitriona Foley (suentertainments@cit.ie) Projects Officer - Wesley Kiely (suprojects@cit.ie) Communications Officer - Gearóid Buckley (sucommunications@cit.ie) Print Barnaville Print & Graphics LTD Freshford, Kilkenny. Advertising Opportunities CIT has almost 17,000 full and part-time students with over 1,500 supporting staff. Why not use expliCIT to promote your business to this large audience? Copy deadlines, advertising rates and technical specifications are available from our website www.expliCIT.ie or upon request from the Publications Office. expliCIT magazine is published monthly by CIT Students’ Union. The views expressed in the magazine are those of their authors and are not necessarily those of CIT Students’ Union. All articles and pictures are the property of their respective owners and should not be reproduced without their permission.
We Need You! If you would like to contribute to expliCIT please contact Philip in the Publications Office, 1st Floor, Student Centre or email: info@expliCIT.ie
People have asked me why did I run for election again, for me the answer is simple, I am sick and tired of hitting brick walls when looking for basic facilities, astonished when hearing stories of CIT’s poor management of your money, and more importantly students being kept in the dark about basic college wide issues that affect all of us. I started my role as a class rep last year, listening to Jeremy O'Murchu (SU President 05/06) at Union Council meetings roaring on about how the student body are continually being screwed over by management. I ran for CITSU Communications Officer last year because I wanted to make a difference. We saw during the Creche Strike back in November how every student who marched out in the rain made a difference, it reached national media and opened a can of worms the management had turned a blind eye to, yes you guessed it, mismanagement. This years Executive uncovered a lot of untruths that certain members of management have kept a hidden from us, However this is only the start, next year I want to apply a no nonsense regime and get the answers YOU HAVE PAID for. As you know the main aim of safety week was to make people aware of dangers, especially the ones that most of us have been affected by, road safety. I'd like to thank all of you who gave up a lecture or lunch break and coming over to the Student Centre and showing CIT cares. Staying with the issue of campaigns I'd like to congratulate the Class Reps of Architectural Technology and Interior Architecture. They were focused, dedicated and loud. They sat outside a meeting of management, in protest looking for answers for simple questions, Dr Brendan Murphy sneaked out the back door rather than talk to us. As I write students are still looking for answers which they need, how can they come back in September if they have no lecture room to attend. The directors office is big enough???? Watch this space! Sorry to be the bearer of even more bad news but if you haven't heard Earth Night Club has closed, thus Candy at Earth is cancelled for the rest of the year. I'd like to thank all of you who helped us flyer, organise and run events throughout the year. In light of this set back Mick has further invested in board games such as ludo and draughts to keep you entertained on Thursday nights, all you need is your college I.D. However, on a more realistic level the thought of CIT students playing Ludo on any night of the week is amusing, after all we are not in UCC. Keep an eye out around the college for ents events coming up. By now we are all in study mode (at least I hope so), you are probably aware that the library hours have been extended so you have no excuse but to get to work. I don't want to be party pooper but if you cannot get a seat and there are non CIT students using the facilities you paid for, call a supervisor and get what you deserve. For the summer my plans are still uncertain, whether you're going away or staying here to make a few million best of luck, and make the most of it. If I see you in August it’s not the end of the world, it just means an extra post exams party. Don't forget the SU are still available to answer any of your questions, even during the summer, so don't be a stranger. See you next September, Gar
CITSU Drives Home National Campign on Road Safety “...The launch of this scheme comes directly as a result of CITSU safety week. After placing relentless pressure on the RSA and by publicly humiliating them due to their inactivity in the third level market, this development marks a complete success for CIT...” RSA launches national 3rd level safety campaign as a result of Safety Week THE campaign to save the lives of young people on our roads has moved to every other third-level college in the country.
The aim of the partnership is to educate students in the rules of the road, to promote road safety and to gain a better insight into the driving behaviour of this high-risk group.
There is mounting concern about the number of young men being killed in latenight and early-morning crashes involving a single vehicle.
On launching the scheme, Colm Hamrogue, USI president said: "Today marks the beginning of what we hope will be a productive partnership between USI and the Road Safety Authority to drive down the number of young people killed or injured on our roads.
A five-point campaign aimed at reducing the carnage was launched two weeks ago by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). The significance of this campaign can only be attributed to the awareness and success that CITSU’s safety week had on the RSA. The RSA, USI and Rally Ireland have produced a road-safety leaflet which covers issues such as drug-driving, wearing of seatbelts, drink-driving, using mobile phones while driving, driver fatigue and speeding. More than 25,000 of these leaflets will be distributed to over 40 college campuses around the country this week to coincide with UN Global Road Safety Week. The week's theme is 'young road users'. Currently 200,000 students, mainly aged between 17 and 24, are enrolled in third-level education. Twenty 17- to 24-year-olds per 100,000 people are killed each year in road crashes in the Republic. This proportion is far higher than anywhere else in Europe. Noel Brett, RSA chief executive said: "What is happening on our roads is no accident. The root problem is excessive and inappropriate speed, driving while intoxicated whether through drugs or alcohol, driver fatigue, failure to wear seatbelts and failure to recognise vulnerable road users."
"As well as investigating the attitudes and behaviours of student road users, we will be campaigning for improved awareness of safe driving practices," Mr Hamrogue added. Speaking on the scheme CITSU President Brian O’ Sullivan said; “The launch of this scheme comes directly as a result of CITSU safety week. After placing relentless pressure on the RSA and by publicly humiliating them due to their inactivity in the third level market, this development marks a complete success for CIT.” He continued to say: “The unprecedented media attention generated by the event last month is a credit to all involved and once again shows that CITSU is a national leader when it comes to public awareness” The RSA and the Department of Health are sending two young people to represent Ireland at the World Youth Assembly for Road Safety being held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. Please see www.citsu.ie for more information and photographs
CIT Security Scandal:
One Year On & EASY AS EVER! “...this excerise shows that the only conclusion the college can come to is to ensure that security personnel are urgently needed...” Exactly one year ago, CIT Students’ Union held an awareness campaign to highlight the complete lack of on campus security at Cork Institute of Technology. The campaign included having a “thug” dressed in a hoody and balaclava taking a computer monitor and walk around many of the college’s main corridors, atria and class rooms acting conspicuous. Finally he was able to leave campus and board the number 5 bus without being stopped or questioned by one single person from CIT. This year to highlight the issue, it was decided to give CIT twice the opportunity to catch our wouldbe thug. For year two of this campaign, our thug was instructed to double last years efforts, this time taking two monitors wearing a balaclava, walk twice as many corridors, and go to the atrium and main areas twice. After all this, he was then asked to do it for a second consecutive day. Speaking out on the campaign last year, a spokesperson for CIT management insisted to the local and national media that CIT were aware of problems and that the management were committed to improve on campus security. Since then, management of the college have decided to delay the issue by sending it to review. A conclusion of this review could see the addition of security personal to bring CIT in line with other colleges. Then again, CIT could be as in the past slow to create any new staff positions and may recommend additional investment in security technology. There has been no visible improvement to any aspects of on campus security and the Students’ Union is still receiving complaints from students and staff of stolen belongings and fears for personal safety.
So far this year they have received complaints regarding belongings being taken from classrooms, changing rooms and offices. Tens of thousands of euro in cash has also been stolen from several offices in recent months highlighting how inadequate this Institute’s security policy is. CITSU President, Brian O’Sullivan, said “this excerise shows that the only conclusion the college can come to is to ensure that security personnel are urgently needed in addition to any technological upgrades that made be required. It is futile to believe that a sole investment in technology alone will improve security if there are no dedicated trained staff with responsibility to oversee it. I am calling on the management of this institute to take firm and decisive action on this issue and not fob us off with their ‘commitment’ for another year. Students’ and staff safety should be of paramount importance and any further delay would itself be criminal, and must not be tolerated”. He added, “I have visited many large and small colleges across the country and have seen that CIT has one of the most lax security policies. Last year the Union highlighted our inadequate security to the management of this college. This year we more than doubled our chances of being caught and only found that it is easier than ever. Everyone in CIT has become acustomed with the frustration of years of delays, disappointments and managerial failures. If CIT is serious about protecting student safety and property on campus, they need to act now”. Please visit www.explicit.ie if you would like to read last years May issue on this campaign
Day 1
Thirsty Work
Nothing Learned Outside Library!
2 Monitors 2 Thumbs Up!
Day 2
This Job is a Drag!
Out the Front Door
At the Bus Again on Day 2
Examination Time:
CIT Gets a DD-elays, D-isappointments, D-isgrace! Canteen Partition Project that cost thousands and lasted a Day!
“...Why does this happen and who was held accountable?..”
It is the season for examinations and CIT Students’ Union have decided to grade management of this Institute with a D- for their efforts this year. This year has been a year of frustration and humiliation for everyone in this institute.
happened that the leases were unable to be drafted. Why was this not spotted months ago? We are now left in a position where months will go by and the delays will continue.
Yet another academic year has passed and still we have an incompleted Student Centre. A building which was designed over 10 years ago has still got four units unopened. This is down to inadequate planning and consistent delays in drafting up the contracts allowing parties to open these much sought after commercial units. The delay has been so significant that three of the four interested commercial organisations, have dropped out all blaming long delays and complete break down in communication on CIT’s part. This is unacceptable. The public sector is all about transparency and accountability but what
Couple this with a significant other delay, the development of lower B Block. After pledging to complete the project by September last, suddenly it was realised that a fire cert will take months to obtain and the work would not be completed in time. Why does this happen and who was held accountable? A question that will undoubtedly never be answered.
New Computer Labs?
Hopefully this wont be a typical year with a mass exodus over the summer, nothing done, and leaving everything for the week before students return!
Local Thug Outwitted by New Institute Security Policy Speaking in an exclusive interview with expliCIT magazine, local thug Robby McSteal outlines his views on the colleges new security policy which has completely outwitted him. “Jaysus thins are gitten tuff for me and me kids over the past year. CIT was tha joint to go for a dacent computer, prajector or printer but lately me customers tha I hock stuff too want newer and better computers tha aint more than four years old. They want the computer tha can run
the windas vista and say the the CIT stuff is a pile of shite. Wha’s a feen to do? I was told last year that new computer labs wer bein soon sorted for de lads in the architec???re DRAWIN course in B Bloc. All tha’s ther was bits a scrap and empty rooms. Also ther was to be some new shops n bars n stuff in the studint center. This aint on lads... I had several buyers hangin on and was to make a mint. Now because of them lan-gers, I have to tell the kinder tha thay wont be goin to see mickey this year in disneeland. If this keeps goin on I’ll hav to get a propa job, go bac to school or somethin”.
Students Call On All Parties To Uphold Free Fees in Government The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) called on every political party to pledge to uphold Free Fees if elected to government.
pledge to uphold them. Every party must include a commitment to Free Fees in its election manifesto.
A demonstration was held outside Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT), Bolton Street at 11am Monday 23 April. Students will demand that every party put this commitment in its general election manifesto.
“Higher education should not be reserved only for the rich. Yet many students already face exclusion from Irish colleges because they don’t receive enough financial support from the government. Student grants are too low and cover less than half the cost of living for students, but if the next government abandoned Free Fees, inequality would increase.
The development of a hierarchy in education must be resisted, USI said. Students “cannot reach the top” unless Free Fees are protected and student grants are increased by the next government. USI President Colm Hamrogue said: “It is vital that Ireland does not retreat from Free Fees after the next election, so students are calling on all the parties to
“Free Fees are the bedrock on which fairness rests. Students and young people will be horrified if any of the parties fails to make a manifesto promise about upholding them.”
The Management & Staff of the Rochestown Park Hotel would like to wish all Students the Best of Luck with their Summer Exams and Holidays. Thank you for once again making us your Number 1 Ball Venue for 2007!
CIT Students’ Union President Alas another year’s end looms around the corner, and what a year we have had. It was a period which saw our transition to the new Student Centre which gave us a new location to base students’ services, Freshers week, rag week and even a location to lay 368 students on the ground to symbolise the vast amount of fatalities on our roads. It was a year where CIT struck loudly on the national radar, where at one stage we achieved coverage from no less than seven national newspapers and five national radio stations. This was a feat never achieved by any previous Students’ Union nationally and one which showed that we are the leaders once again in students’ politics. Enough on the past let us focus on the future. Plans are very much under way at present for Freshers week and even Rag Week 08! With more space at our disposal all we need is more ideas to fill it with every aspect of entertainment. Only time will tell, but your input is invaluable. Plans for an environmental week have also been initiated, to highlight what little changes CIT students have to make, to once again become national leaders on an issue which are of growing concern for everyone. An Even bigger and more impacting safety week is being planned and no doubt together we can continue to save lives. That in fact is an achievement that one can boast about for a lifetime but only if we work together and make small and simple changes to our lives. I’m on board are you? Along with the year’s end one more thing must be achieved before you head off on the summer hols and that is the touchy subject of exams. I would personally like to wish all those doing exams the very best of luck and hope that the grade you desire will be achieved. Should you feel the need to get some help in certain subjects we have an extensive grinds database on offer so just call into Simon and ask. As I’m only too well aware, exam time can be a very stressful time so take a read of Marie Claire’s article on how to counteract stress with meditation among other methods. If that wasn’t enough we hope to set
up camp outside the gym for a few days with bouncy castles and the likes for you to relax and take a break. With that we will hand out free water, chocolate and oranges just like at Christmas, to make sure that you take a break and zone out from the pressures related to exams. Please watch out for more details of this and come and enjoy. I will be available in my office for the whole summer and indeed for the next year so if you have any queries just drop me a line or call in. If you happen to fail your summer exams and will be repeating in the autumn we can help with grinds. Alternatively check out the ad in this month’s edition for the learning support centre as they offer FREE classes in Maths, Physics, Programming/Computing and Electronics and lecturers will cater for all levels. This programme will begin in July 2007. So as I leave you with my last address for this academic year, I hope I have done my job for you to the best of my ability for the year just passed. Remember I am here to work for your needs and I would like to think I have achieved an answer for most if not all questions I have been asked. I will continue to fight for your rights in every field for the coming year but if there is a problem and I’m not told about it, I cannot do anything about it! At time, the most obvious student or class problems go undeclared until the issue has gone beyond repair! So remember no matter how obvious or trivial the problem may be, I am here to help. I wish you every success with your studies and careers. Until our paths cross again, Brian PS; I believe they deserve a special mention! I would like to publicly thank everybody in CITSU executive this year for their support, dedication and hard work. You have done CIT proud and no doubt leave big shoes for the incoming officers to fill. They are the dream team of John Grant, Catriona, Gearoid, John Lane and Eoin, with whom I am relishing the though of working with!
CIT Students’ Union Vice President Welfare What a year it’s been. I can’t believe it’s almost over! (sob, sob, sniff, sniff!) I hope you all enjoyed the year as much as I did. For those of you at the end of your time here, I wish you all the very best in your endeavours. And for the rest of you… you lucky thing, you get to live the student dream a little longer! Thanks so much to everyone who helped me out over the year. No words could fully express my gratitude. Thank you to all the executive and staff I had the pleasure to work with this year…. Thanks for keeping me on my toes Brian. I’d like to wish the very best of luck to Caitriona, my successor, and the entire new executive.
As the academic year comes to a close for us, we all know what that means… exams! I’m not going to go on and on as I’m sure you’re tired of repeatedly hearing the same exam tips, ‘drink plenty of water!’, and ‘eat plenty of fruit!’. In this issue I have some exam help with a difference so take a look; it might be just what you need. Amid the exam madness, remember to take a little time each day for some R&R. Short regular breaks can really help with retention. If you do need any further help, don’t be a stranger. Myself, Brian and Simon are here full time to help you in any way we can. Take care of yourselves, Marie-Claire
CIT Students’ Union Entertainments Officer Hard to believe we’ve gotten to the end of the year already, it’s been a fantastic one! If you decide to take a little break from the stress of study and exams, there will be plenty of parties going on, as well as our usual Wednesday nights in Rafterz and brand spanking new Thursday nights in Club Isobar at the Mardyke complex. Of course if you’d like to organise a class party to celebrate the end of term, call into us in the Students’ Union and we’ll help you find the best possible deals on offer!
Before I sign off, I’d like to say a big thank you to Mick, Brian, Simon, Marie Claire, Gearóid and Wez, I’ve really enjoyed working with y’all this year, and also a million thanks go out to everyone who’s helped out with our events, couldn’t have done any of it without ye. I’m really looking forward to stepping into Marie Claire’s shoes as Welfare Officer in June, and I’d like to wish Eoin the best of luck in taking over as Entertainments Officer. As for the rest of you, good luck with exams, have a fantastic summer and keep doing what we CIT students do best – party! Caitríona
CIT Students’ Union CIT Students’ Union 2007/2008 Vice President Executive Election Results Education Students of CIT, I bid you farewell. This is my last address as your VP Education which I say with a note of sadness. The year has gone so fast it seems like only yesterday I was giving speeches to first years from the prefab steps, I still remember that speech but please don’t ask me. It has been a great year lots of good memories and a few drunken ones too and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. So for the last time I’ll remind you about the grind services in the Union that you can avail of and also let you know that the library opening hours have been extended to include Sundays 10-5 and also open early during the week. So if you need advice or help just drop into the Education Office and best of luck in your exams. I have a lot of good memories from this year, if I started telling you I wouldn’t fit it all on this page. But one of the best things I’ve seen all year is the amount of students willing to stand up and make their voices heard. Remember that you are and always will be what the Union is there for and without you it is nothing. I’ve seen it this year in you the students, the will for change, the belief that you can make a difference but nothing is achieved if you do not speak up and let your voice be heard. So I pray that future students and execs will see this and have the will and power to stand up for what is right, for you the student. If our will is so strong that no hardship and suffering can subdue it, then our will and our might shall prevail. So finally, I say goodbye to you as VP Education but also that I will not be far away. Mind yourself, Simon.
Cork Institute of Technology Students’ Union Executive Elections for the 2007/2008 academic year took place on Thursday 15th March. Polling stations were also running in the Crawford College of Art & Design, Cork School of Music and the National Maritime College of Ireland. In total eight candiates ran for the six available positions, three of which are sabbitical posts. The new officers take up their roles on the 1st June 2007.
PRESIDENT:
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER:
Total Poll Spoiled Valid Poll
758 (5) 753
Total Poll Spoiled Valid Poll
731 (9) 722
Quota (50% +1)
378
Quota (50% +1)
362
Bolger Simon O’Sullivan Brian R.O.N.
262 472 19
Lane John R.O.N.
611 101
Brian O’Sullivan was elected on the first count having exceeded the quota.
The Learning Support Centre
John Lane was elected on the first count having exceeded the quota.
Term Timetable March 2007 Room B289 10am-2pm Tel (021)4326378 http://learningsupport.cit.ie mailto:learningsupport@cit.ie
Subject Maths(for First Years) Maths
Day Monday
Room D259
Time 1-2pm
Lecturer Dr. Violetta Morari
Thursday
D259
12.30-1.30pm
Thursday
D259
5-6pm
Mr. Ciarán O’Conaill Dr. Violetta Morari
Maths(for Mature Students) Programming Electronics Electronics Statistics
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
D259 D259 D259 B229
12-2pm 12.30-1.30pm 12.30-1.30pm 1-2pm
Computing Physics
Tuesday Thursday
D259 D259
12-2pm 1-2pm
Physics
Friday
D259
11-12pm
Ms. Mary Davin Mr. Matt Cranitch Mr. Paddy Collins Mr. Declan O’Connor Mr. Denis Long Ms. Eleanor Baldwin Ms. Eleanor Baldwin
These extra support sessions are F R E E of charge to students taking the subject as part of their course. Students are encouraged to walk-in at the designated time, should they have a query or difficulty in a subject. The CIT Learning Support Centre is funded by the Higher Education Authority IT Investment Fund. This timetable may be subject to some changes, any changes will be posted on the LSC notice boards (outside main reception and outside B289). The LSC will be moving to block D during this term. Any room changes will be posted.
VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION:
ENTERTAINMENTS OFFICER:
Total Poll Spoiled Valid Poll
760 (11) 749
Total Poll Spoiled Valid Poll
713 (11) 702
Quota (50% +1)
375
Quota (50% +1)
352
Grant John R.O.N.
646 103
McInerney Owen R.O.N.
602 100
John Grant was elected on the first count having exceeded the quota.
Owen McInerney was elected on the first count having exceeded the quota.
VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE:
PROJECTS OFFICER:
Total Poll Spoiled Valid Poll
743 (8) 735
Total Poll Spoiled Valid Poll
715 (9) 706
Quota (50% +1)
368
Quota (50% +1)
354
Foley Catriona Foley Padraig R.O.N.
416 290 29
Buckley Gearoid R.O.N.
607 99
Catriona Foley was elected on the first count having exceeded the quota
Gearoid Buckley was elected on the first count having exceeded the quota.
E&OE Sean McIntyre, Returning Officer & Vicky O’Sullivan, Assistant Returning Officer
Open All Hours?
Dear reader, I too have seen the bureaucratic nature that exists within CIT. I do believe that it is unacceptable that a few key figures have ultimate power to make decisions over ruling boards in specialist areas. Such examples include awarding the commercial units in the Student Centre to the Student Services Company for sub letting. This was an issue that an expert group from Deloitte and Touche consultants, voluntary members from the student centre management board and the Students’ Union were firmly opposed to but all were over ruled by the Director Dr. Brendan Murphy. This marked the beginning of a rollercoaster ride down every path imaginable to get thee units opened. The companies were chosen back in August and since then the student’s services company and CIT finance department have trashed this issue around. It is now apparent that the company will be UNABLE to offer contract leases. Eight months have now passed and all but one of the four companies interested in offering CIT greater services have pulled out and will not be coming to CIT. The remaining company will no doubt have dropped out of the running by the time you read this.
Student Centre Bistro: One of many units that remain idle as external companies loose confidence in CIT management. Dear expliCIT. Can you please tell me why we have waited for so many years for our new Student Centre to become fully functional? I am a fourth year student and have seen Students’ Union Executives come and go with broken promises about this amenity. When I have quizzed Executives on this issue they all say the same thing, when they get into the real problems which exist in CIT they realise that you have to some how by pass the bureaucracy that exists within the college and this for the most part has proved very difficult in their short terms.
WHY WASN’T THE PANEL OF EXPERTS LISTENED TO? This disaster would undoubtedly have been avoided and we would have a new Student Centre, the envy of any one nationally. On your issue of individual self gain from public money, I cannot respond as I have seen no proof to date. While I believe this to be unlikely I will stop at nothing to get the answers to every question. Too long I have seen individuals screw up in CIT and get a pat on the hand and told not to do it again. This madness has to end and someone has to be held accountable. So at present the prospect of any more units opening in the Student Centre soon is bleak. How long more will it take? That’s the million dollar question.
Should you have any further queries on the above issue or any other issue for that matFrom what I have seen and heard over the last few years it has become ter please do not hesitate to contact me. apparent that only one or two individuals are stalling essential projects for apparent self gain. Is this a fair assumption? Regards, Brian O’Sullivan In anticipation of your reply, President ELX Student. Dear expliCIT, As an architecture student I write to voice my disgust at the recent turn of events regarding our relocation. Being placed down in the Herlihy building eight years ago as a temporary measure was bad enough but to be told a few weeks ago that there will be inadequate space in the main CIT building is a disgrace. The development which was supposed to be completed last September, still has not even commenced. I propose that senior managment take no holidays this summer to ensure that this development is completed when the students return this September. The fact that this project is a year late is forgivable at this point but if this development is uncompleted this September we will be unable to attend lectures. This a worrying period for us and is certainly a worry which no student should go through in this day and age. We will stop at nothing if this project is uncompleted and I call on senior management to take this warning on board. A.T. Student
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FREE PHONE 1800-201365 TEL: (021) 4505933 (BETWEEN 9AM-4PM) OR E-MAIL: jean.conway@shandonclinic.ie
www.shandonclinic.ie
End of Year Party Madness! Tuesdays with DJ Anthony Fleming Thursdays with DJ Jason
See Posters & Fliers for Daily Details of Party Events Best of Luck with Your Exams and DON’T FORGET to Book Your Class Party
Selection of Photos CITSU Elections - CIT Socs Awards Pimps n Hoes Party - BICS National Awards Herlihy Students Protest - CITSU Rep Awards
Everything You Need: Deli, Frozen Foods, Beverages, Confectionary, Fresh Fruit & Vegetables, Dairy & Fresh Meat and a Wide Selection of Groceries at Great Prices!
Special Offers This Month! Deli Counter Specials:
Mini Market Specials:
Chunky Pies Now Only €1.99
Goodfella’s Pizza Twin Pack Only €1.99
Wedges per Portion NOW ONLY 99c Rolls & Sandwiches Made to Order with Excellent Choice of Fillings
Maxwell House Coffee 100% Extra Free Maryland Choc-Chip Cookies
Twin Pack Only €1.99
Homestead Digestive Biscuits 400g Only 99c Uncle Bens Sweet & Sour Buy 1 Get 1 Free!
Many More Exciting Offers in Store!
We don’t keep the best, we sell it!
before you leave college talk to us about a
graduate account* Free day to day banking transactions for 2 years*, discounted loans** and much more. Call into our CIT branch today and speak to Paula or Rose or phone (021) 4545177 / 179
* To qualify for Graduate Banking you must have graduated from full-time third level education in the last three years. Graduate Current Accounts are subject to terms and conditions. Some additional charges may apply to overdrafts.For full details see our brochure ‘Schedule of Fees and Charges for Personal Customers’ available in any branch. **Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Bank of Ireland is regulated by the Financial Regulator.
10969 - Graduate advert CIT.indd1 1
16/04/2007 17:29:17
The management and staff would like to wish you the best of luck with your exams and thank you for your custom this year. Enjoy the Summer!
Mondays: Texas Hold’Em Poker
Wednesdays: Fun n Frollics
small entry - BIG CASH PRIZES
with DJ Anthony Fleming
Tuesdays: Party Madness
Thursdays: Student Mayhem
with DJ Trevor Fitz
with DJ Pat D
Super Student Meals Deals Week Nights!
BOOK YOUR END OF YEAR PARTY NOW! SEE POSTERS / FLIERS FOR END OF EXAMS PARTY GIG GUIDE REMEMBER TEXAS HOLD EM EVERY MONDAY & DJ EVERY THURSDAY DURING EXAMS!
Welfare Guide to:
Stress & Meditiation “...Once we look at things as they truly are, it becomes possible to change our attitudes. We can draw support and guidance from within...” Well it’s that time of year again when exam stress rears its ugly head and can really get a grip on us. But it doesn’t have to, there are ways and means to tackle this and meditation is one option. So what exactly is meditation? The word can be used in two ways; there are techniques of meditation and there is the state of meditation.
THE STATE OF MEDITATION: Through the practice of meditation, we gradually arrive at a stage where much of our time is spent in the state of meditation, even when we are busy. Body and mind can be fully occupied, yet we can still be aware of an inner stillness and peace that spreads through all our activities and to the people around us. We have all met the kind of person who never seems rushed and always has time to listen, yet, far from being idle, such people are usually the busiest and most productive, the most loving and supportive, of all those whom we know. The state of mediation is a natural state which can sometimes arise spontaneously. Meditation is a state or relaxed alertness, a responsive state, unclouded by physical discomfort, self-centred emotions or personal opinions. A wider view becomes possible, as heart and mind expand beyond the confines of the personal self.
FEAR IS ALWAYS PHYSICAL: At exam time, many people experience fear of failing an exam, not studying the right things, forgetting what has been learned etc. But fear is always physicalwe feel fear in our bodies, and we are fearful for our bodies. Because fear is felt in the body, chronic and unrecognised anxiety can cause physical illness. The recognition and removal of the fear often occurs through regular meditation. This, in turn, can bring physical as well as emotional and mental healing. Fear can be a hard habit to break but meditation helps in many ways. It teaches us to stop and listen, and to accept that what is is. Once we look at things as they truly are, it becomes possible to change our attitudes. We can draw support and guidance from within.
STRESS AND BREATHING: Our body is influenced by the stresses the world can place on us and our emotional reactions to those stresses. Many times we feel ourselves gasping for breath or our hearts thumping, and these are natural effects of stress. We can all try to live our lives in a way that we avoid all stress, but for most of us that is an impossible dream! We can however learn to limit the effects of stress as it occurs in daily life.
So what has all this got to do with breathing? Of all our body systems, breathing is the only one over which we can gain any degree of conscious control. When we notice that our breathing has changed from its natural flow, and has become stressed, we can change it back again and undo the stress. One of the most harmful effects of allowing ourselves to remain in a prolonged state of stress is that the body is kept in a state of imbalance. The overactive systems suffer from exhaustion. The immune system can be suppressed by stress, so infections are more likely to take hold. Once you are sitting in a comfortable position, close your eyes and start to watch yourself breathing. Be careful to observe without allowing this to affect your breathing. Focus on your natural breath, as it flows in and out. You will find this exercise soon becomes very easy and soothing. Overactive breathing from the upper chest makes the heart beat more quickly and can cause panic. To breathe more fully and deeply it is essential to sit up straight to allow the diaphragm to move freely around the waist. You may find it helpful to place one hand over the breastbone and the other just above your waist. This deep breathing is very revitalising. Try to practise this method as it may help to avoid feeling panicky in an exam. Deep breaths allow oxygen to flow to your brain more easily, helping you to think more clearly.
THE RIGHT CONDITIONS: Although the state of mediation can occur spontaneously most of us need to work at our meditation techniques to get into the right frame of mind. There are 5 basic requirements: 1. The body must be comfortable and still 2. The internal energies need to be in balance 3. The mind must remain focused and not be allowed to wander 4. The heart must be at peace 5. You must wait patiently and without expectations You first need to learn how to sit comfortably in a suitable position, and to practice this position until you can remain in it, relaxed yet alert, for half an hour or more. (This will also help you with sitting comfortably in an exam hall), You may need to practise breathing exercises to bring the internal energies into a state of harmony. Otherwise you will be hampered in your practise by restlessness of one sort or another- traditionally known as distractions! You should focus your mind on one thing only, which can be an internal or external object. You should become aware of when your mind wanders, as it will, and gently bring it back into focus. Your heart should become naturally peaceful and
serene as a result of attending to your body, breathing and mind. Having got yourself ready for the state of meditation to arise, do nothing. Maintain your stillness and wait tranquilly. Clearly for meditation you need somewhere quiet where you can be sure you will not be interrupted. Whatever place you designate should be comfortably warm and free from draughts. Meditation involves sitting still, which causes the body temperature to drop, so you will need a light shawl or blanket to keep you warm. You will also need firm cushions or a suitable chair. Some people like to use flowers, incense or music. So how often should you meditate? Try to find a half our in the day that you will have to yourself to sit in your space. Regularity is important in building the habit of meditation so try to practise every day, preferably at roughly the same time each day.
THE EGYPTIAN POSITION: Sitting upright on a hard chair is called the Egyptian position as it appears so often in hieroglyphics. You can rest your hands in your lap, palms up, with one resting upon the other- this is sometimes called the gesture of peace, especially when the tips of the thumbs are touching. The Buddha is often shown with his hands in this position. If you are using a chair with arms you can rest one hand on each arm, with the palms down and the forearms comfortably supported.
KNEELING: A Yoga position that can be used is simply to sit down on your heels from a kneeling position. The trouble with this is that it can compress the lower abdomen and you need this open for proper breathing. To avoid this you can place a cushion on your calves to raise you up a little. Keeping the knees apart can also help.
THE BUDDHIST POSITION: The next easiest position is probably the one that Buddhists adopt. You will need a round and firm cushion for this, 5 or 6 inches high. You kneel up with your knees apart, push the cushion underneath you and sit onto it. Your knees and shins rest on the floor each side of the cushion, with your feet relaxed and pointed out behind you. You can use a couple of blankets rolled up instead of a round cushion. But make sure you are sitting high enough to be comfortable. As you lower yourself down from the kneeling position it is important to tuck the tailbone under, to lengthen and straighten the lower back as you sit down. Next you pull the navel back towards the spine and stretch up from the waist. Then lift the breastbone. As you do this you create space between the chest and abdomen. Finally, your head should pull up from the top of your spine with your chin level. Shoulders and arms should remain relaxed with the hand folded in the lap.
THE ADEPT: The Yoga position of the adept is also very good. It may take a while to loosen up and feel comfortable with it but it is worth the effort. Start by sitting on one or two firm cushions with your legs spread out as wide as possible in front of you. Keep you knees straight and relaxed and your toes pointing towards the ceiling. You can lean forward to ease out the hip joints. Next, bend one knee, and keeping the other knee and thigh in position, slide your bent leg along the floor until the heel comes against the straight leg. When you feel ready, bend the second knee and slide the foot along the floor to press against the first. Both knees should remain in the floor.
The students of CIT have raised considerable funding for various worthwhile causes based locally, nationally and internationally. We would also like to acknowledge the continued support of our sponsors.
RAG Week This year over €14,785 was raised through Rag Week 07. The following are the details of the various charities which have benefited from the funds raised.
Aid Cancer Treatment - €8000 The supporters of ACT are the true force behind the development of the Radiation Oncology Department (R & O Dept) in the Cork university Hospital (CUH) in Wilton, Cork; it is recognised as the cancer charity that has contributed more funding than any other organisation in the state for vital cancer treatment equipment. There is a direct link with the outstanding work and development of the R & O Dept and the long-term commitment and shear dedication, of so many wonderful people throughout the province of Munster and beyond – ACT is merely the conduit for this selfless, caring effort - ‘by so many and indeed, for so many’. The work will continue, as cancer diagnosis is increasing, the area of direct focus includes the R O Dept’s treatment catchment population, of nearly half a million people from South Tipperary, Limerick, Kerry, Cork and Waterford. In the words of a prominent Government spokesperson – “No other voluntary organisation in the states has provided so much funding for cancer treatment equipment as Aid Cancer Treatment”. www.aidcancertreatment.ie
Junior Infant Pupil (Anon) - €1000 This donation was given to a junior infant pupil, suffering from an illness known as Type One Neurofibrmatosis. The child has a tumour wrapped around the arteries to the brain, which in turn is affecting the eyes. The tumour cannot be removed; therefore, the pupil will have to have continuous operations in future years to retain eyesight which will require significant funding.
SUAS – €500 Suas is a youth and education focused organisation, which facilitates young people to address educational disadvantages at home and overseas. By giving Irish people a chance to directly experience the challenges faced by communities in poverty, the Suas Volunteer Programmes aims to increase understanding, respect and empathy for communities in the developing world. www.suas.ie
Parent/Families and Friend of St Patrick’s Upton - €750 This group of volunteers have been fundraising over the past number of years with the aim of providing the residents of St. Patrick’s of Upton with a wheelchair accessible bus.
The Irish Pilgrimage Trust (IHCPT) - €1500 The trust, each year at Easter, travels to Lourdes with young people who have special needs accompanied by carers. The aim of the journey is to give young people and opportunity to meet other young people from the Island of Ireland as well as other participating international groups. This time away for the young people also facilitates respite time for their families who then use the occasion to recharge their batteries. This trip is for six days and all expenses for the young people are covered by the Trust. The carers all pay their own fares. www.ihcpt.com
CIT Society Awards 2007 The annual ‘CIT/AIB Student Societies & Activities Awards’ took place at the Oriel House Hotel, Ballincollig, on the 27th March 2007. In all 11 awards were presented, 5 group and 6 individual. Certificates of Merit were presented by the Director Dr. Brendan Murphy and Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Brendan Goggin. Our guest of honour was Mr Martin King (TV3 and Today FM). www.citsocieties.com
Hope Foundation - €300 For almost two decades, the HOPE Foundation has led the way in tapping the passion, collective wisdom, and leadership within learning communities to create schools where failure is not an option. The results of their work throughout North America, parts of Africa, and England have been used to re-shape school cultures so that low-performing students succeed in school. They do this by helping individuals within the school, district, and region work as a team, one that is collectively focused on learning and success for all students. www.hopefoundation.ie
Enable Ireland - €2000 Their mission is to enable those who use their services to achieve maximum independence, choice and inclusion in their communities. They do this by offering a range of services and supports of the highest quality, in line with the needs and wishes of the service users and in active partnership with them. This year, the Rag Week donation has been earmarked to purchase an editing suite for the production of short films to help develop/foster creative abilities amongst the users. www.enableireland.ie
DEBRA Ireland - €735 This is a registered charity set up to raise awareness of and offer support to patients and families affected by the rare genetic skin condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). This is a very distressing and painful disorder which causes the skin layers and internal body linings to separate ad blister at the slightest touch. Any friction can produce pain blistering which have to be lanced to prevent them spreading. Even in the mildest forms of EB, simple tasks such as walking or typing can be transformed into impossible ordeals. Fundraising and donations are vital so that DEBRA Ireland can fund services and research for patients and families with EB. www.debraireland.org
CITSU Wedding Day Our own John Grant was wed to a former Miss Cork in a civil service in the Bishopstown Bar in November 2007. All wedding gifts were donated to Aid Cancer Treatment totalling €515.48. John is still maintaining the wedding was official but the lovely former Miss Cork has not been seen since.
Christmas Day – CIT €3295.50 was collected and donated to the Cork Simon Community, who provide essential services to those in need during the festive season and throughout the year. The continued support by students and staff of these worthwhile charities it greatly appreciated by those who benefit. Although students may struggle financially, they never fail to dig deep into their pockets when it comes to a good cause and are to be lauded for their efforts and generosity. Vicky O’Sullivan
‘Society of the Year’ Poker Society ‘Best New Society’ Sustainable Living Society ‘Most Improved Society’ Dance Society ‘Best Event’ Choral Society ‘Best Course-Based Society’ Mechanical Engineering Society ‘Supreme Achievement in Society & College-wide Activities’ Brian Bermingham (4th Year Computing Student)
‘Special Achievement Award’ Sophie Ho (2nd Year Computing Student) ‘Individual Award’ Brendan Gallagher (1st Year Biology Student) ‘Individual Award’ Ciara O’ Shea (4th Year Fine Art Student) ‘Individual Award’ Will Nunan (3rd Year Business Studies) ‘Individual Award’ Joanne Scobie (4TH Year Fine Art)
CIT Climate Change Response:
Switch Off – Power Down! CIT is a major consumer of energy. With a student body of 6,000, a staff of over 1,000 and evening classes running late into the night during the week this is not altogether surprising. However, in an attempt to initiate a reduction in energy consumption a "switch-off" campaign along the lines of the RTE Derek Mooney Switch-athon was undertaken during the mid term break, and more recently over the Easter break.
The results: • •
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The switch off – power down action appears to have achieved a measurable reduction in night time energy use of between 5-10% A 10% reduction in base energy use, over the unoccupied periods of the college (night time, weekends and vacations) , could achieve a 5% reduction in total annual electrical use = €30,000 p.a and a similar % reduction in Carbon Dioxide emissions The graph of Daily energy use shows the problem that we are still facing; a peak load of 1400 kWatts during the day, and a base load of nearly 350kWatts during the evening, when the college is unoccupied, and no storage heaters are being used.
Future Actions •
Local actions across the colleges are needed to extend the action already 70 people have signed up as local contacts for future actions.
Examples: • Set computers to complete shut down after you have left work • Ensure all office lights, printers and photocopiers are switched off at night • Switch off all lecture room lights at lunchtime (they may not need to be used in the afternoon) • Switch off all lecture room lights after the last evening class • Ensure all electric heaters are switched off at night, or are on a timer for weekday use. • Switch off all corridor lights which have sufficient day lighting • Do the same at house.
This is not about returning to the stoneage, this is about using the resources we have most effectively, preventing unnecessary carbon emissions, and reducing the energy budgets. All essential lighting and equipment is of course to be left on as required. Future actions will consider the heating use in the colleges, transport issues, and future building performance.
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Pressure also needs to be exerted on the college funding sources to implement energy saving measures that will pay for themselves in a few short years, and will reduce the carbon load immediately. Contact your local TDs, councillors on this issue. If you are able to show the Oscar winning film “An Inconvenient Truth” by Al Gore, and discuss these issues wherever you can. If you haven’t already done so, see the same film yourself.
If you wish to be contacted directly regarding any actions which are being planned across the college, or if you have suggestions that you want to make regarding the implementation of any activity that will help combat climate change, please contact : - chris.gibbons@cit.ie The college has applied for funding for a 800kW wind turbine, for the very rear of the campus, although there are still a number of planning issues to be considered. Improvements in the insulation and lighting controls of the main building are also being costed. This action or sequence of actions will only be a success if as many people as possible get involved, and change habits from those that take energy for granted, to those which cherish and appreciate the real cost of energy to us and to the environment. Climate change is a serious threat to us all, and it is only by acting together directly at local level (switch-off and consumer power) and nationally through lobbying for effective political leadership and supporting responsible business and industry that the problems can be addressed. Through the CIT community of staff, students, families and their extended communities it is hoped that a positive message for a change to a sustainable future can be delivered.
arch Puzzle
http://puzzlemaker.school.discovery.com/code/BuildWordSearch.asp
may 2007 E C E T C M I U S V S I V V R
S N O I T A N I M A X E V I N
S T I N Z H R S P P B T B E H
Z O L Z Q X Y S Q O E L T D R
P H C B A A S R R C I R C Q E
D A U I D G Q D H I T H M J X
U C R I E K A N Q U I I C Y O
B R L T R T O M N O C N I A Q
O O A O Y L I I A A I S T M E
H P C F O X O E Y K L T S Y K
M J M G G N H L S J P I U O S
D V Y G R E M M U S X T Z W M
S T U D E N T S D A E U U O B
K M S Q I E N J O Y K T U B Z
Q U K K F M U O E I T E Z P P
MAY EXPLICIT MAGAZINE CORK INSTITUTE TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS UNION CITSU PARTY SOCIETIES EXAMINATIONS ENJOY SUMMER HOLIDAYS
This Month’s Prize: € 30
Competition Closes 5pm Friday 11th May 2007 Last Month’s Winner: John Cronin
Competition Rules: All Entries to be returned by deadline to the CITSU Office, 1st Floor Student Centre on official form. Open to CIT Students only and one entry per student.
CITSU CORK ENJOY EXAMINATIONS EXPLICIT