Sin Newspaper Volume 13 Election Special by Student Independent News

{2}

Election Special

{sin}

Editorial buzzword How on earth do you write an unbiased editorial for an election special? I know, I’ll just talk about myself. I took up the mantle of Sin Editor in September, emerging from my blissful postgrad existence like a butterfly from a warm cocooon. I remember during my interview for the position I spun my utter ignorance of SU Politics as a positive: “No I didn’t vote for Connolly, but on the other hand I didn’t vote against him!” Evidently he liked that. Student politics? I rememered them from UCD. But that was almost ten years ago! We had a lot more money. Sure, we campaigned against fees, but we also had an ENTS officer whose sole purpose was to blow €100,000 on an epic Fresher’s Ball every year and try to out-do Trinity (always unsucessfully). I was on a friend’s ENTS campaign by virtue of being a member of CraicSoc which basically organised parties in Gearoid’s house and occasionally in secret locations on the large Dublin campus. It was somewhat controversial in that the college authorities thought we were trouble makers but most of the other students thought we were dorks. We mainly hung out in the Forum Bar and came up with inventive campaign slogans, eventually settling for “Bring the Craic Back.” We thought that was hilarious, though it does give some indication as to why everyone thought we were dorks. Gearoid got elected, started hanging out with his fancy new Students’ Union

friends, and quickly forgot about the minions who put so many of our limited braincells into coming up with his campaign slogan. Excuse me while I go remind him about this. So when I, the beautiful butterfly from my earlier analogy, was forced to become involved in student politics again I was expecting to meet a bunch of self-obsessed idealistic young dorks like my eighteen yearold self. I don’t know if it’s the tighter budget or if people are just better in NUIG, but the students I’ve worked with since September are engaged, passionate and opionated. They all want to change something, and while they may not always agree on what this something should be, when push comes to shove they all have the same interests at heart: You! Think of this Special Editon as a catalogue of home appliances. We’re offering you a selection of products. Not all of these products may be what you need. This one may be to big, this one to small. This one may address some of your needs but not others, and this one may address all your minor needs but not your major ones. This one has been withdrawn because it burned down a building. This one looks great but has terrible features. This one has a faulty off switch. This one has poor user-reviews because it doesn’t do what’s advertised. This one simply doesn’t work. Keep looking until you find the one that checks all your boxes. Then open your wallet, take out your student card, and go vote, because if you don’t someone will choose the wrong product for you, and you’ll be stuck with a crappy appliance that burns your toast.

BINGO 24-hour Library/ Reading Room Access

Fight Fees

Improve grants system

Reference to NUIG “reputation”

Candidate spins dubious past as positive

Bigger Better ENTS to be organised by candidate’s friend (“their 21st was savage like”)

Abolish Fees

Graduate Tax

“Unique”

Bigger better ENTS

Something about student nurses

Bring back RAG week

Keep RAG week cancelled

Support for the Irish language

Candidate offers practical suggestions for improvement

Cheaper booze on campus

Cheaper food on campus

“Change”

New SU Logo/SU Branding

Election poster referencing Michael D.

Better campaigns

Candidate was member of Lit n’ Deb

Candidate cries before/ during/after Hustings

Defaced election poster

Student Dentist

Roof over Campus with future plans to extend roof over Galway

“grass roots”

Candidate has radical makeover

Jobs for students “Communicating” with students

How to Play While the candidates may change from year to year, every Students’ Union Election has some things in common. So here is Sin’s Election Special Buzzword Bingo. If you hear it, tick it! Care to make it more exciting? Use your imaginations! We’re sure you’ll come up with something.

{sin}

Election Special

{3}

The Quick and Dirty Guide to Students’ Union Elections By Ian Colgan

What’s Going On? This week you might find yourself being approached suddenly by one of a small number of tense people zipping around the campus like frenzied hummingbirds; talking faster than you can understand, looking so fatigued and crazed that you might feel threatened, and so keen to ‘press the flesh’ that they may forget to introduce themselves. There is no need to panic; these people are merely candidates in the upcoming SU Elections, and the reason they’re so wired is because the crunch is coming on hard and fast for those seeking the full-time Officer Positions. With only three days left until Election Day it’s almost too late, for some, to significantly alter the drift of student opinion that — when revealed after the counts come in on Friday — will either put them on the Executive Committee for the year 1 July - 30 June, or reject them as hopeless failures not fit to represent a union of chain gangs. Candidates for the positions of President, Vice-President/Welfare Officer, and Vice President/Education Officer, are gearing up and bracing themselves for the cold-blooded lashing or outpouring of approval they’ll receive from the student body.

What does it all mean? Why should I vote? In these teeth-grinding days of fee hikes, grant cuts, and the general purging of student spirit, the far-reaching implications of SU Election results carry a knell too heavy to ignore. Any student protest or demonstration is rendered meaningless if the right people aren’t there at a basic Executive Committee level in the first place. If a wave of apathetic, soulless dullards were ushered in to these positions, such mass action might not even happen. The SU aren’t some mob of whimpering paper pushers crawling around in a dark chamber beneath the concourse; they represent us, and have a direct impact on the day-to-day realities of our college experience. Not many people would feel comfortable with a half-mad, yelping mutant speaking on their behalf in any personal or political spectrum, so there’s no reason to be offhand about the election of SU Officers who reflect your views at both local and national levels. In the last round of elections, some candidates ran virtually unopposed and

only secured a hundred-or-so votes, and the voter turnout was generally so low and poor across the board that anyone caught on their way to cast their vote was made instantly to feel like a junkie at their nephew’s christening slinking off to score some smack. Even at national level, in the recent real presidential elections last October, only 57% of NUI Galway students intended to vote, which was far below the national level of 74%. Our friends in UCC put us to shame with 96% of students using their voices, even if those voices were indistinguishable Cork accents. It’s critical that you make whatever voice you have heard to reverse the declining admiration for democracy creeping into our national gait.

Explaining the Positions It’s too late now, for anyone that might have been coveting any of the full-time positions and fancied entering themselves as a Jerry-Brown-style late runner, as nominations are now closed. It’s too late, too, for any current candidate who can’t get to grips with the very real possibility of humiliating defeat, as the deadline for withdrawals has also passed. Nominations for the part-time Officer positions, however, are open until Wednesday, 7 March. These are Oifigeach na Gaeilge, Equality Officer, Postgraduate Officer, Societies Chairperson, Club’s Captain, Mature Students’ Officer, and the Conveners for the colleges of; Arts, Social Sciences & Celtic Studies; Science; Medicine, Nursing, & Health Sciences; Engineering & Informatics; and Business, Public Policy & Law.

Full-Time Officers

The SU President, Vice-President/WelY fare Officer, and Vice-President/Education Officer form the main muscle-axis, and CM if you’re going to vote in either of the MY two elections then this, as they say, is the CY Main Lever. Between them they oversee everything from commercial services such CMY as Smokey’s, the College Bar and The Wall K Cafe, to national lobbying, SHAG week, representing you at USI gatherings, and keeping you safe as you wander around the campus at night. The President is the students’ mouthpiece on the Board of Directors of Seirbhisi Comhaltas na Mac Léinn, the Health Unit, and Flirt FM.

Part-Time Officers Next week’s elections will determine the ‘supporting cast’ — the positions for the part-time Officers, and anyone serious about who they want to see providing resources to clubs, assisting societies, championing student and minority

rights, or promoting Irish culture, would do well to familiarise themselves with the current crop of hopefuls and their policies. Past campaigns such as those for disability awareness, the society awards, and bi-lingual resources were all sparked by officers who filled these seats. The five Convenors are the chairpersons for their class rep councils and represent them on the Executive committee.

How? Where? When?

Full-time Officer Elections 8 March 2012 Áras na Mac Léinn (10am - 9pm) An Bialann (10am - 8pm) Friars (11am - 2pm) Acadamh (12pm - 1pm) Part-time Officer Elections 15 March 2012 Upstairs in College Bar (10am - 9pm) An Bialann (10am - 8pm) Friars (11am - 2pm) Acadamh (12pm -1pm)

After presenting your student card, you’ll be given a pen and ballot paper where you can select your preferred canSo now that you’re cranked up to didate. Or, if you decide that there’s more vote, it’s time to deal with the technical than one worth voting for, you can list aspects. Voting will take place this Thurs- them in order of preference. Then, when day, 8 March for full-time SU Officer you’ve made your choice, simply fold your Positions and on Thursday 15 March ballot paper and slide it into the ballot box. It should be noted that only one vote for the part-time Officer Elections. For any student that hasn’t voted in per club is allowed for Clubs’ Captain and an SU Election before, the process is too one vote per society for Societies’ Chairsimple to justify not doing it. Students person, and these are to be cast by Club can vote by seeking out any of the poll- Captains and Society Auditors. Likewise, 289 around SU SESSIONS MîR Sin.pdf 02/03/2012 14:13 ing stations campus during4their the Postgraduate Officer is elected by postopening hours. These are as follows: graduate students.

COMING SOON THE SU SESSION AN SEISIUN MOR

25.03.12

{4}

E l e c t i o n S Pe c i a l

{sin}

So You Want My Job?

“When I was President...”

By Emmet Connolly SU President, 2011-2012

By Muireann O’Dwyer, SU President, 2008-2009

I’ve been asked to write an article on what the role of Students’ Union President actually entails, so I will try to give you an insight as best I can. First, it’s a full-time, paid position. This means the elected student is going to have to take a year out of study or run in their final year and take up the position after they finish their degree. What does ‘full-time’ mean in terms of hours per week? Some parts of the year will understandably be very busy (such as Freshers’ Fortnight or in the run-up to a national protest) while other parts will be relatively quiet, allowing the president time to work on their manifesto ideas and catch up on paper work. A fair average would be fifty hours of work per week, not including breaks. For busy weeks this can easily turn into being in the office at 8am and leaving at 9pm or later each day, but this would be the exception rather than the norm. A couple of hours on a Sunday afternoon catching up on emails and reviewing documents are not unusual. Today for example, I arrived at 9am and will leave whenever I finish this article, probably just before 7pm. What do you need in order

to do this job well? To put it bluntly, you need a serious level of cop-on or common sense. Basically, the right candidate will have good organisational, leadership and management skills. This doesn’t mean they need to have single-handedly solved world hunger, but if they’ve managed their exams well, or been involved in running a decent-sized club or society

“

and improving WiFi and everything in between. Everyone has their own pet projects and issues, the important thing is that you choose the candidate who you believe is running for the position because they have an interest and actually want to work hard for students. The president needs know how to deal with the unexpected. For instance, when I was running for President this time last year, I didn’t think I’d be overseeing the abolition of RAG Week or negotiating a multi-million euro deal for universal gym membership. So one has to expect the unexpected and be able to change plans at short notice. A lot of the national issues will of course depend on government policies and what emerges from the Budget each December. This ties in with the role of SU President as the chief representative of NUI Galway students with the national Union of Students in Ireland (USI), which were are affiliated with. So overall, is it worth running for? Absolutely. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that involves many different and interesting aspects, from

So overall, is it worth running

”

for? Absolutely. It’s a oncein-a-lifetime experience.

on campus, they are more than likely capable of doing the job. The right candidate needs to be intellectually up to the job. I’m not trying to sound obnoxious by saying that, but they will find themselves going through piles of government and University documents on their own, identifying the one line of text that could impact on students, and then putting that case forward in front of the University management, or the government on that issue. The right candidate must have a genuine, general interest in student issues, from fees and grants to mental health

formulating education policy, to managing a €4million business, from leading hundreds of class reps to lobbying politicians on student issues, and from sitting on management groups to organising student demonstrations. There’s no other job like it. The person you elect will be thrown in at the deep end and expected to be able to represent 17,000 students effectively and knowledgably from day one. It’s a tough but rewarding job, in which you’re more likely to get criticised for things which are out of your control than praised for genuinely worthwhile work, but that’s the nature of the beast.

Though few people will ever admit it, there is something excellent about being asked to prattle on about “in my day.” And so, I won’t even pretend that this won’t veer into the territory of aging ex-SU President talking nonsense about how her year was, without question, the best year. I would say that, of course. Mostly because: it was a great year. At least for me. Those students we lost on that trip to Dublin might disagree, but since they’ve never been heard from since, I guess it’s my version that history can remember. Giving a year to working full time in the Students’ Union is tough, you learn very fast that very early mornings do exist, and they have a strange habit of combining with very late nights. Lots of people will try to trick you, or even to bully you at times to get what they want. But lots of people will want things that you are able to

“

your memory is nowhere near as good as you think,” “don’t drink Red Bull on a night out in the hopes that the caffeine will wake you up in the morning; you’ll just end up on a roof somewhere, declaring that you have vanquished the need for sleep,” and “if something

Giving a year to working full time in

the Students’ Union is tough, you learn very fast that very early mornings do

”

exist, and they have a strange habit of combining with very late nights.

give, and will, usually, be grateful. You get to have so much fun being a full time officer in Union – you get to meet lots of people, you get to work really hard at things you care about and hopefully be successful, you get a serious amount of experience: some of it professional, some of it less so, some of it unfit for publication. The things I remember the most from my year probably include such valuable life lessons as “write everything down,

has been on your to-do list for over a month, it’s never happening.” All that said, the role of President isn’t, and shouldn’t be, just about what you learn and experience. The President, and the Students’ Union as a whole, does so much for students, and a lot of it goes unnoticed by most people. Being the President means understanding that, and being willing to get shouted at in a meeting, or work really long hours in order to get the job done. But it

is worth it. In the September of my year, the SU got an email towards the end of Freshers’ Fortnight from a first year student, who explained that they had been really nervous about moving to Galway for college, but had had such a great time in the first two weeks, and had already made loads of friends. And for that student, apparently, it had all started with the SU events. Since most of us can remember that nervous arrival in Galway or NUIG (I made my parents park outside Corrib Village for about twenty minutes before I was ready to go in!) it’s great to be able to make that easier for people. It’s also great to see campaigns and events going well, and seeing students enjoying themselves. That’s your job. Your job is to make life at NUI Galway better for students, and if you think you can do that, then best of luck! It obviously won’t be as good as my year, but at least most people in college now won’t remember that, so you’ll be fine.

{sin}

Election Special

{5}

What it takes to be Welfare Officer By Emma Conway, Students’ Union, 2009 - 2010 The role of Welfare Officer was, for me, always about working for the students. The Welfare Officer is there to co-ordinate campaigns and sit on committees, which is all very important, but the officer is also there to provide a confidential referral service to the students. Casework is the biggest part of the job and it's really important for the new Welfare Officer to know and understand that. Some of the questions asked are simple queries but the other pieces of casework that arrive at your door require a lot of patience and sensitivity. The Welfare Officer isn’t an 'oracle of knowledge' although they are

sometimes thought of as one. There will be times when something crops up that is completely out of your depth and when those situations arise you have to be able to say that this situation is beyond you and that you need help or you need to pass it on to somebody who is more capable. It is a challenging role and anyone who says otherwise is completely oblivious to the amount of phone calls, emails, texts and appointments the Welfare Officer has to deal with. I think one of the most challenging things about the job was the sheer volume of students and parents with financial problems. Everything comes back to

“

The moment you know you have helped

”

a student and made their lives a little easier is one of the best feelings ever.

money or the lack of it. It is something that will be a problem for years to come and I think that a new officer will need to be ready for. Fees and grants are the big issue and new officers will have to be able to come up with solutions and plans to keep people in college, be it developing payment plans or something else. I think a growing problem for future Welfare Officers will be students in rented accommodation faced with letters from banks saying the

property has been repossessed. It was an issue that had started to increase by the time my term had ended and it is a problem that isn't the students' fault but which they get dragged into. Mental Health issues are another massive concern. People know that there are counselling facilities out there, but getting them to use them is the problem. The stigma around mental health has got to be fought on and defeated. I want to stress that

even though it is a tough job the Welfare Officer is not alone. They will have the other members of the Exec with them and they do have supports on campus to help out. There are also other Welfare Officers in different colleges that they can talk to. I found bouncing ideas off them very beneficial and I know that they thought so too.

As challenging and difficult it can be, the moment you know you have helped a student and made their lives a little easier is one of the best feelings ever. It is a great position, I was fortunate to work with two great execs and it is an experience I truly treasure. Best of luck to all those running.

Been there, done that, still wearing the free t-shirts. By Ciara Staunton, Students’ Union, All the Years.

“

You’ve got to keep motivated and

not turn into a lazy officer during

”

your term because once again it’s the students who will suffer.

I was Education Officer in 2007/8 and Postgrad Officer in 2010/11. The main challenge with the role was definitely dealing with inept officers as well as the tensions that grow between officers during the year. Poor working relationships between officers are very common and can weaken the Union as a whole, not to mention the damage to the students they are meant to represent. If officers spent less time fighting with each

other and more time fighting fees we might all be better off! The amount of meetings the Education Officer is expected to go to is crazy. It’s really a case of “death by a thousand meetings.” They’re generally pointless, repetitive and boring but you really still have to go on the off-chance that an issue which has some relevance to students is discussed. Also the meetings provide the opportunity to get to know people who

can get things done. With this university it’s often not what you know but who you know so the personal touch is important. While you may want to come in fighting with everyone in sight on 1 July to prove that you “can stand up to the man,” you will have damaged any hope of a working relationship with the people who make the decisions which ultimately negatively affects students. Simply put, you have got to keep your temper and ego in check and play nice with the university staff whether

you want to or not, otherwise it’s the students who suffer. One difficulty is generally getting students to get involved in campaigns. While this may be due to the workload of students rather than apathy, you may spend weeks working towards a march (for example) and only get a couple of hundred people out. But you’ve got to keep motivated and not turn into a lazy officer during your term because once again it’s the students who will suffer if you decide to take your

pay check each week but spend your day Facebook stalking someone you saw in CPs. At the end of the day it is a job and you must take your position seriously. For the incoming Education Officer I would advise them to worry about the education issues for the students of NUI Galway. While we all want to help the people of Palestine, they didn’t elect you. The issues that affect the students of NUI Galway must always come first and only when they have all been addressed should you start saving the world. The increases in fees and the postgrad grant cut are obviously the biggest issue the incoming Students’ Union Executive will have to deal with, but the fees campaign isn’t the only issue. You have to deal

with complaints about the library, complaints about lecturing standards as well as answering a couple of hundred emails a week that can be about anything. These are issues that are affecting the average student right now and must be addressed. In a nutshell - you do have to sweat the small stuff. Your time in the SU will be a fantastic year. You will get to do things that you will never get a chance to do again as well as getting involved with campaigns that will potentially change the lives of thousands of students across the nation. You will meet people who you will walk over hot coals for and some who you will probably throw hot coals at. But work hard, play hard and fight the good fight!

S U Pres i de n t

Paul Curley “I am arrogant and I am cocky but I have delivered.” By Colette Sexton Only two candidates are running for the SU President election and they are polar opposites. Will O’Brien is anti-capitalism and Paul Curley, well he is capitalism. He is treating this campaign as a business and the product he is selling is himself as “one of us.” He wants to be seen as an ordinary student. Someone who likes to have the craic in CPs while trying their best to pass their exams. He describes himself as a “rough fella” in first year. “I was a pisshead in first year, I won’t say I wasn’t,” Curley explained, “We had the time of our times in first year with GPO, RAG Week and what not.” But there is another side to Paul. He is driven and determined. He knows what he wants and he isn’t afraid to go get it. He readily admits that he hates losing. He ran for SU President last year but lost to Emmet Connolly and so continued into his final year. He took over the Auditor position in BizSoc and is rightfully proud of what he has achieved this year. “I am arrogant and I am cocky but I have delivered,” he asserted. The Commerce Ball was a huge success but

that is not all BizSoc has done this year. All the academic societies were asked to set up a free grinds system, but according to Paul, BizSoc is the only one that actually went through with it. As a result, the failure rate reduced in some modules. BizSoc has also organised the Irish Student Business Conference, which will take place on 31 March. Paul claims that by the end of this academic year, BizSoc’s bank account will have increased twelve fold. He has high praise for his twenty-five strong team in BizSoc and he has achieved a lot with them. But what happens if he is elected and that team are not there to support him anymore? He thinks that he will be fine and he will be able to work with the full time staff in the SU. “There is a team there of professionals,” he said. His first plan, if he is elected, is to sit all of the SU members down to have a brainstorming session. “I’ve been here four years and I’ve seen so many empty promises,” he explained, “you haven’t seen a Students’ Union president in the last few years that has delivered.” He thinks that current officers in the SU are failing the students and agrees with the UCD system of ‘naming

and shaming’ officers in the college newspaper if they do not show up for work. When asked about his previous experience in the Students’ Union, he explains that he was Class Representative and a member of the Academic Council in second year. “I’ve seen how it works at the top boards and I don’t like it. They shoot down the students straight away,” Paul said. Several candidates running in the SU election are from FEE backgrounds so if Paul is elected, it is likely that he will have to work with members of FEE. However, he does not support them. “Although they are trying to represent students, they are not representing any regular students,” he argued, “I think it’s been seen this year that students, class reps council … don’t like FEE. They’ve reprimanded their two officers on the SU.” However, he said that he has no problem with FEE being elected as long as they do not use their positions as SU officers while they are on FEE protests. He alleged that this has happened this year with certain SU officers. He acknowledges that differences of opinion and arguments will be inevitable in the SU President’s role. “You are not going to always get on with people,” Paul explains, “you’re always going to have issues, conflicts of personalities. “You have to show restraint at certain stages and you have to show a certain sense of aggressiveness at certain stages.” He wants to be remembered as the president who kept his promises. “I’d like to be a president that everybody respected, everybody believed in and at the end of the year, everything I said I got done and that I left the position in a better way than

{sin}

Quick Facts Name: Paul Curley Age: 21 Course/Year: Final Year Commerce Describe yourself in 3 words: Capable. Confident. Dedicated. What are your top three goals as president? Make sure every student is able to afford to go to college. Get as many students as possible involved in the SU. At the end of my term to be respected for the job I did and looked up to for the way I went about getting my policies done.

I found it,” he said when asked what the theme of his presidency would be. Paul asserted that he will not lie to win this campaign. “I’m not going to make fake promises like reducing the [prices of] dinners to try and get people’s votes,” he said, “I think all the prices are decent on campus. The dinners for €5, you won’t get that anywhere else in Galway.” He believes that other Students’ Unions, such as UL and UCD, are seriously in debt because of these kinds of promises. The improvement of SU Council is one of his main objectives. He aims to keep each Class Rep Council to one hour. “You turn up on time, it starts on time, it finishes on time,” he explained. While he has not attended SU Council since the start of last semester, he is not a Class Representative this year due to other commitments. His plans include a part time job initiative: going to local businesses and asking them to dedicate a certain number of jobs to students. He also has plans for a “Home and Away” programme, which would see students helping members of the community, the elderly, people in their estates and neighbourhoods. Paul thinks

that this would lead to less negative press about students. “You can create a feeling of good will,” he said. “That bit of good will goes a long way.” Paul intends to increase the numbers of students attending protests by creating more of a party atmosphere using drummers, floats and DJs. He acknowledged that the issue of student fees is very serious and claimed that “the more people you have out on the streets, the better it’s going to look.” RAG Week is something that he does not believe he can prevent. “I don’t think that the SU can really stop students from drinking unless some sort of miracle happens,” according to Paul, “The Students’ Union shouldn’t back it but it’s still going to happen.” In his manifesto, he proposes to re-introduce buses to exam halls. He predicts that they will cost around €4 each way for students. The bus company will make the profit but the SU will help them to organise the timetables. “There are people with ideas. There are people who can do things. I can do both,” Paul asserted, “I will be a different sort of SU President. I’m not going to follow the mould.”

President

{6}

{sin}

S U Pres i de n t

Will O’Brien “I want the hardest job in the West of Ireland” by Eistear de Burca Will O'Brien cuts an interesting figure with his dreadlocks and bandana, and believes that without a doubt he is the best candidate for the future presidency of the Students’ Union at NUI Galway. Right now he is a very busy man; he is in the final year of a Biotechnology degree as a mature student and is also the current SU Equality Officer. He is also an active member of FEE, the Free Education for Everyone campaign and is known throughout the country for his work as an activist. Before coming to NUIG,

The Students’ Union President is responsible for: The management of the Students' Union, including: • Union finances • Campaigns and initiatives

The President represents students' interests: • Through meeting with management • By participating on University Committees He/she is chairperson of Students' Union Commercial Services, the company which runs the College Bar, Smokey's, the SU Shop and the Wall. He/she also serves on the Board of Directors of: Seirbhisi Comhaltas na Mac Léinn, the Health Unit and Flirt Fm. The President is the spokesperson for the Union and leads coordinates lobbying on a national level.

he completed a degree in the Natural Sciences at the University of East Anglia, worked off a student loan by managing a Dominos Pizza outlet (a job he found very stressful), was employed for a year as a science technican in a high school where he had the opportunity to engage with many young people, and set up his own business in event management. He is 26 years old and originally hails from Tipperary. The theme of his campaign is Ideas and Experiences; as a president he believes that he could vitally transform the role, making it far more effective. Will sees the Students’ Union as a mass of 17,000 students that would have tremendous power if motivated and activated in the best way possible, and is convinced that currently this potential is not being realised at all. He describes the SU as the biggest representative union in the West of Ireland, requiring a President who has strong leadership qualities, innovative ideas and the desire to channel the power of the student body into an effective force for the better, especially during this time of economic recession and cutbacks in education. He comments “I want the hardest job in the west of Ireland.” Regarding his relationship with FEE, he stresses the point that he will remain completely dedictated to its campaign; he stands totally against the commercialisation of education and believes that very single individual has the right to education. However he promises that the students of NUIG will be the only influence on him and that he will distance himself from the FEE group if elected: “Having someone who is a radical as president of the Students Union but behaving himself as best as possible, is way more effective than

someone who’s outside the Students’ Union and is the most radical person on the planet,” Will remarks. When asked how he would manage if, after the current round of Students’ Union Elections, a union divided in political ideoloogy should emerge, Will claims it is his aim to act as an honest facilitator of the democratic process and insure that everyone is listened to and has an equal say: “Everyone is right if they believe in something, there is no ultimate truth. I would embrace a very diverse union.” He comments that the outgoing president, while keeping together an Executive that included different and at times antagonistic elements of the political spectrum, acted too often in a reserved manner and failed to provide adequate leadership. He leaves no doubt as to the fact that he himself plans to be a radical president: “I have a lot of radical ideas as I read a lot of radical literature; I am aware of the serious problems around us and I do believe radical action is necessary.” Will stresses that he knows and respects that as a student representative, “if students aren't comfortable with being radical, you can't do it.” While this sentiment is admirable and it is clear that, as President, Will intends to take his queues from the student body, his passionate displays at Council meetings over the past year are still very recent history. As Equality Officer Will received a motion of censure by the current Students’ Union Executive for interruptions during a recent SU council. O'Brien has a very ambitious manifesto and many ideas for the year ahead; these include a revamping of the class rep system so that it is made up of students who actually do

{7}

Quick Facts Name: Will O'Brien Age: 26 Course/Year: Final year Biotechnology Describe yourself in 3 words: Experienced. Caring. Capable. What are your top three goals as president? To implement a massive campaign against all tuition fees and grant cuts Ensure the Union is transparent and accountable to students it represents and who pay for it Ensure that the SU caters for all of its members equally and is all inclusive in its services, events and campaigns

care about issues affecting them, the introduction of an Entertainment and Communications Officer as a full-time, paid position on the Executive, connecting with other unions and affected education groups in order to form a strong opposition to austerity cuts in the education sector, and establishing an accomodation register managed by the SU. One wonders if he is broadening his remit too much; for example he proposes joining with concerned groups who oppose the removal of Special Needs Assistants in schools because “people with special needs have a right to come to university just like anyone else.” In doing this he seems to be going beyond representing the 17,000 students of NUIG, seeking also to stand for those aged between 5 and 18; according to Will however, this is a positive move – “Students need to come out in solidarity with all other affected groups and show that we realise that our cuts are just one part of a broader attack on education in Ireland today.” A key word that stood out for me whilst interviewing Will was ‘Influence’. He believes that as the SU president he can influence people and give them confidence

in their ability to change the world. He is convinced that a progressive President can have an influential effect over key decision making, not only at university level but also at regional and national levels. His aim is to redefine the role into one of increased leadership and influence, just as he says he has greatly broadened the role of Equality Officer this year. His mission is to facilitate a mass mobilisation of students in the west of Ireland to counteract all cuts to education and he believes that he is the man to do this,

from the position of NUIG Students’ Union President. Without a doubt, O'Brien is radical and passionate about his beliefs; he definitely is not apathetic, and neither is he self-seeking. Questions such as his ability to work as a team leader with those of different persuasions to himself and the danger of neglecting crucial problems at NUIG level in trying to achieve the aim of Free Education for Everyone on a national level are not to be ignored. As a whole however, William O'Brien comes across as a genuinely sincere individual.

{8} E du c a t i o n Off i c er {sin} The Vice-President / Education Officer is responsible for:

Education Officer

• Co-ordination of the Students' Union Council • Providing a confidential listening and referral service • Representing students on University committees which relate to Academic life • Dealing with individual requests from students • Keeping the Executive and students informed of all educational matters • Organise and chair the Education forum • Providing academic information through thepublication of leaflets and/or books • Representing the Union in USI events and attending

USI events, especially in regard to the Education Working Group and other Education related areas • Drafting education policy • Dealing with issues as the arise within the University e.g. re-structuring

The position of Vice-President / Education Officer means being up to date on academic policy, being a voice for students on academic issues and also being an importance member of the Executive Committee. As Vice-President, this officer is very involved with the day-to-day running of the Union, and helps with all Union campaigns and events.

Issues that previous Vice-President / Education Officers have worked on include: • Developing a support centre for Maths and English within the University. • Creating an informative grants booklet to make applying for the grant easier for students. • Lobbying the University for extended library opening hours. • Encouraging students to use the available mechanisms for reviewing their lecturers. • Increasing the effectiveness of the Class Representatives Council • Working with the national union (USI) to improve the grants system • Increasing awareness of students' rights in University • Lobbying for clearer and more frequent communication from the University to students.

Conor Stitt: “No Issue is Too Big or Small.” By Kathy Dillon Conor Stitt began his studies in 2007 and has been an active member in Sinn Fein since 2009. He is no stranger to either student or political life and argues that therein lies the secret to his suitability for the role. For those of you who may not be familiar with the details of the role, Conor explained that the education officer is involved in every aspect of student academic life. From exam stress, grant queries to fighting fee increases, Conor believes “no issue is too big or small”. What you the electorate need to know is what distinguishes Conor from any other candidate. When asked how he would respond to students who are sceptic of empty promises and overused political rhetoric, Conor explained "I don't blame students for thinking that the Students’ Union is not as effective as it should be." Conor understands the frustration felt by students who feel let down by their representatives and who feel that they have had to compromise on their education. So what can he do to really change how the Students’ Union implements the reforms it so desperately clings to? “I know the issues that need to be dealt with. I know how the political sphere operates and am well informed on the regulations of academic life.” As a student, Conor knows the areas of the academic system that are lacking. He wants to increase the effectiveness of student’s ability to apply their knowledge in a practical working environment, to increase their competitiveness in the labour market. Through his party affiliation he has met education officers, both former and current education ministers and education spokespersons. This has afforded the opportunity to work with dynamic views and insights on education. One of the main objectives of Conor’s manifesto is his pledge to fight increasing fees for students. This may be a sentiment shared

by every Education officer for the past few years, yet despite the passionate pledges to defy increases to tuition fees, the registration fee has increased and furthermore grants have been cut. No TD is willing to stand by their pre-election promise not to increase fees. Clearly campaigning isn’t enough. When asked if he could provide an alternative approach Conor acknowledged that campaigning is just one aspect of the battle against fee increases. He believes the reason for the governments flamboyant attitude is the fact they don’t see the students as a united community on the issue. “I have the experience, I can rally people to do that. You have to know your politics, its vital if you want to get something out of this government.” Conor plans to achieve this by increasing awareness of the Students’ Union’s services. To many the Students’ Union is an abstract organisation that inhibits a room in Aras Na Mac Leinn. He wants to increase the interaction of the Students’ Union with students on a daily basis through social networking sites, but also plans to reform the class rep system to facilitate this. Class reps are a great way to make sure the Union are continually kept in touch with the needs of students.

Conor seeks to introduce a recall system for class reps that aren’t fulfilling their role. He maintains that class reps must hold regular meetings with both their class and the Union. As a former class rep, Conor is aware of the support system the Students’ Union must implement, to offer adequate guidance to class reps. Conor has quite an ambitious manifesto. From creating a database for Students to upload their C.V’s, where employers can post job advertisements, to ensuring all lecturers are required to post their notes on blackboard. His manifesto embodies a broad scope of students’ needs. His commitment to these needs is further epitomized by the fact he plans to suspend his political membership. “If I am elected I will be mandated by the seventeen thousand students of NUIG. I want everyone to come into my office and feel that I have helped them, not given them excuses.” Ideas, experience, and organizational skills: Conor certainly has the qualities necessary to take on the role of Education officer, but does he have the flexibility needed to meet his objectives? He believes so. Conor claims: “If you don’t get somewhere with a solution, find another approach.”

{sin} E du c a t i o n Off i c er {9} David Reilly “I feel how much people are going to suffer from not getting an education.” By Joyce Fahy Involved with his secondary school Students’ Union but sceptic about the way it was run, David Reilly, a final year Geography and Economics student, has become increasingly concerned with the academic problems concerning students. Due to his availing of the Higher Education Access Route (a programme that aims to tackle educational disadvantage), David is thoroughly aware of the vital need for equal education for all students. His first hand knowledge of the “strain on resources that can exclude a lot of people” only adds to his vigour to address the academic side of NUIG life, as it is very “close to home.” Primarily, David aims to tackle the fundamental issue of the lack of study space around campus. He is of the strong opinion that the library should have the same opening and closing times as the reading room, and if appointed, will aim to secure the opening of classrooms around college at later times to free up space. When asked how he would go about practically obtaining this for students David explained that “there’s a number of class rooms on the concourse or in close proximity to the reading room, that can be very easily

opened and closed by the security staff, who are on campus 24/7. I believe it wouldn’t be major issue to implement this.” With regards the confusion and fear surrounding the fee threats, David feels that we must take action by expressing and highlighting the understated negative effects this will have on people. David states: “I feel how much people are going to suffer from not getting an education. We can’t ignore that people’s well being is being affected.” Along with the introduction of fees, he strongly opposes the reduction in mature student grants and seeks to make people aware of the importance of such funding - which if taken away - will exclude a large number of people (than we care to admit) from being able to afford third level education. Moreover, he has goals to implement tutorials as a more consistent part of academia, whereby the student could ask for advice on how to increase grades, how to reference correctly, and recognise recurrent mistakes he/she may not have been aware of. Nor is this idle political rhetoric: “I’m aware of the practical issues that arise with this, especially with the size and numbers some classes hold. It is something that would need to be looked at in terms of the tutorial system

across the board and to come to some sort of consensus with each course regarding the resources at their disposal, to try and improve it.” He feels that these sessions would be beneficial to both the welfare of the lecturer and the student. In addition, he wishes to introduce ‘Anonymous Marking’ in all academic exams in order to provide a fair chance for all students of attaining a non-biased mark. When asked to describe some defining attributes he would bring to the position, he hesitates for a moment before smirking and divulging, “Well I’ve a lot of energy; I’m like a Duracell bunny!” His optimism juxtaposed with his determined ambitiousness, is not only contagious but is also inspiring. He is interested, not only in addressing such vital problems previously mentioned but feels the importance of the need to make education easily accessible and comfortably attained. He stresses the value of creating awareness of problematic issues, and how effective communication can be. With regards the class representative system, David calls for better communication: “Some class reps are more active than others and a more proactive approach needs to happen across the whole system. Also, the issue of communication between students and their class reps needs to improve. I have found a lot of students have had issues that needed to be directed towards their class reps but didn’t know who they were and how to contact them. This needs to be improved: for example social media is a very effective medium of communication. I have witnessed first hand how easily it works in my classes.” On meeting David Reilly, he immediately exposed a genuine concern for the well-being of the student’s academic life. His innovative thinking on making life more convenient and positive for each individual may benefit the Students’ Union greatly. With future aspirations to become a teacher, he has students’ interests at heart.

Tatiana Brusilovskaya “There are no dead end situations” By Jane Kearns Out of all the Education Officer candidates Tatiana Brusilovskaya was a somewhat surprising contender. Tatiana, who is originally from Russia, is currently enrolled in the Environment, Society and Development MA programme here in NUI Galway. She hopes to work in this field in the future but would love the opportunity to live and work in Ireland for the next year as NUI Galway’s Education Officer. In the lead up to Election Day I got the chance to interview the candidate and learn a bit more about her plans if elected. Tatiana, a relative unknown in Students’ Union politics previously, explained her motivation to run for Education Officer: “I’ve never been a class rep or anything like that but when I was doing my BA back in Russia I was very active in organising extracurricular activities. This included class meetings and different kinds of fairs such an international fair which showcased international languages and cultures, including Ireland.” Tatiana does not have any political affiliation: “I don’t think it’s a good idea to be honest. But as I said in my manifesto I support the FEE movement, it’s a noble cause.” She elaborated on her involvement in Free Education for Everyone: “I am just an ordinary member and I support the movement morally, when I get a chance also bodily: for example I took part in their last protest. If I get elected I will certainly get heavily involved in their activities, providing them all support within my possibilities and powers.” It’s a cause she obviously believes in: “In my home country undergraduate education is free and I hope it will stay this way, so I see no reason why in a developed European country like Ireland it should not be either.” Tatiana’s manifesto is very succinct but highlights the issues she wishes to tackle if elected. These include making the education process as smooth as possible for

students and acting as an efficient interface between students and various services and structures of the University ranging from the library to clubs and societies. She also wants to put more focus on equality and takes a “there are no dead end situations” approach to equality issues. Two of Tatiana’s main points of interest incorporate some of the most pressing issues for students at the moment, which are the fight against fees and developing students’ skills relevant to their course of study. Tatiana’s manifesto mentions promoting greater equality among students, the promotion of the Irish Language, an improving communication through Irish among the Students’ Union and throughout the wider student body. She explains, “I am quite aware that there are a number of other officers at the SU with a wide range of functions, most of them engaged on a part-time basis. If elected I would be very happy to cooperate with all of them, organise and take part in various activities together with them, provide overall support to them whenever they need it from the side of Education.” She certainly has the experience for the role, having previously worked in a lan-

guage school which was part of a secondary school: “I have a good idea of what the education sphere is like from the perspective of both an employee and a student. I also worked for an NGO which involved a lot of training and educational activities.” But does Tatiana have the right characteristics, the right qualities, to succeed as Education Officer? “I think I would be the right person for the job,” she explains. “I have both relevant experience and I am sociable enough and attentive to people’s problems and needs. My attitude is; when someone comes to me as an officer with their trouble, I should do my best to help and be as resourceful as possible in the search of the solution, not just send them further to someone else, saying it is beyond my scope of responsibilities.” Finally, I asked Tatiana about her campaign, coming from a low profile with no society affiliation. Did she think this would affect her chances on polling day? “I don’t think it’s a good idea to get support from a group or society; it wouldn’t be very fair to be honest,” she explained. “I think that keeping a low profile this year is something that is expected and this way people will get more real votes and the campaign will be fairer.”

{10} E du c a t i o n Off i c er {sin} Evelyn Fennelly

Rory Kitt

“I believe in the principal of free education.”

“Honesty, Hard Work and Approachability.”

By Mark Kelly Evelyn Fennelly has been involved in student welfare and education roles for a long time, and has now decided to take the leap and put herself forward to represent the University as Education officer. When asked to explain the role, she says “The Education Officer is extremely important in these times. They have to spearhead the fight against increases in the registration fees and cuts to the grant, as so many students – especially here in NUI Galway, which has the highest level of students on the grant – [are] on the verge of dropping out. They also have to deal with any academic issues students have, and voice student opinions on the Academic council to get the best possible academic outcomes for students.” Evelyn is one of three Free Education for Everyone (FEE) candidates running for full time-officer positions. “I believe in the principal of free education. It is the right of every person; it shouldn’t just be reserved for the people who can afford it. People should not be restricted to come to college by fees. The cuts in education and raising of fees needs to be fought a n d resisted.” When asked i f she

believed that student’s perceptions of the group as a radical movement would affect her chances, she responded “I don’t think radical is necessarily a bad thing, we need radical action. We need a strong union who can campaign against education cuts and raised fees. We need peaceful direct action, not letters to TD’s or ticks on a website from students and parents. It needs to be direct action, not senseless rabble.” One of the things that stands out on Evelyn’s manifesto is that she doesn’t want “any interference from outside corporations.” When asked what she meant, she clarified the meaning of the point: “Students should be able to study what they want. Course choice should not be driven by profit. College is reserved for knowledge, not profit, and research should be the same. I want to lobby every college about this issue, as it affects all students.” When challenged that it may not realistic to expect the Government to fund courses that have little hope of employment, and hence no promise of tax revenue, she defended her stance: “We shouldn’t be looking at things from a purely monetary view. If this approach was adopted there wouldn’t be many college courses remaining.

Choosing a course is a choice dependent on the individual, it shouldn’t depend on job security and level of salary after completion of the course.” Evelyn has shown that she cares about education already. She is a volunteer with SUAS educational development, a movement dedicated to supporting high quality education in targeted under-resourced communities, with programmes in India, Ireland and Kenya. She also received funding from the Enterprise Awards to develop Nurture. “Nurture is a project for parents who are attending college. It is run in conjugation with the Health Promotions Office and is supported by the SU. It is a drop-in centre, every Tuesday from 12 to 2 pm in the Wellness Centre and is a place where parents can discuss the problems they face with being in third-level education and raising children, with each other. We also run workshops and talks every three weeks. I came up with the idea because parents face additional problems, both socially and educationally. Third-level is challenging and difficult enough without children, and they need help and support to get through it.” Another interesting thing on Evelyn’s manifesto is the idea to have a separate Student Assistance Fund, which will be awarded late in Semester One. She has a novel way of funding it: “Well, the funds will come out of mine and my running mates salaries if we are elected,” she explains “the lag of the Students Assistance Fund is unacceptable, and can leave many students with no option but to drop out. This new fund will put students in a good position to continue their studies.” She also plans to hold college-wide assemblies “where students can discuss problems with her and other students” as well as making academic and social class reps. When asked why students should vote for her, she responded: “The principle of free education is one I am passionate about. I have experience in activism, volunteering and SUAS and think I can bring a lot to the role and make a difference.”

By Declan Higgins A theatre and performance student, Rory Kitt cuts an earnest figure as he speaks to me on the concourse benches amid the hustle and bustle of the college students he is seeking to represent. He hails from the well-known Castleblakney political family and works, to support himself for Joyce’s Supermarket in his native Tuam, Co. Galway. Somewhat of a lower profile than many of the other candidates in the race, Rory has been heavily in involved in societies such as DramSoc and GUMS. Having been previously involved in the campaigns of Emmet Connolly and Peter Mannion, Kitt says he brings a fresh approach to the issues facing the student body at NUI Galway. His candidacy, he says, is borne out of a desire to give something back to the university that has been so good to him over the years while a student here. He set out his stall with conviction, honing in on points he believe go to the heart of the role of Education Office, including making the SU more visible and connected with students; the focus on the north of the campus, being an Ambassador for the university and the students, issues and difficulties relating to exams and courses, placements and dealing with education standards at the university. When questioned about his stance on fees, Kitt said nobody could promise to bring down fees, but that he would do as much as possible to fight fees by means of intensive lobbying and the exploration of different avenues. This, he believes, can be brought about by uniting the student body into one representative group. This is crucial he believes, as students are “the future of our country.” When asked to elaborate on his policies, Rory placed particular attention on the north side of the campus, where the Students’ Union activity is not as strong, so that students who are based primarily there will also be afforded the full services of the SU: something many engineering and nursing students will be

glad to hear. When posed with the question of the relevance of the SU to the student body and the class reps system, Rory said he believed the current SU worked very well, but that changes were needed to the class reps system. Rory believes that the system “need(s) to be simplified,” that is to say that the structure should be easier to run so the most benefit for the students could be attained. I could not allow the issues that arose in the aftermath of ‘unofficial RAG week’ pass this interview, and asked Rory for his views: “It was a small minority of troublemakers,” he told me. “Student’s are entitled to go out and enjoy themselves.” For the most part, there were no sinister or perverse motives at play, and he rehashed the now revered statement of Pat McDonagh of Supermac’s in the Irish Times where he downplayed the whole affair. “Very little was ever paid to the sincere charitable element of RAG week,” Kitt said. Rory was eager to tell me of his novel ideas related to placements for students, something akin to the Jobs Bridge Government initiative, attempting to impart students with relevant beneficial work experience to assist them in terms of confidence and employability in their future

endeavours. When pressed on how this would be brought from theory to practice, Rory spoke of how large companies would have to be approached to secure such positions for students. This, he believes, will greatly benefit students in imparting them with skills, experience and insight early on. While undeniably from one of Galway’s best known political dynasties – his grandfather being the T.D. and Minster Michael F. Kitt, his uncle is the former Dublin T.D. Tom Kitt, Michael Kitt T.D. for Galway East is another uncle, and his aunt, Aine Brady is a former T.D. – Rory insists his own opinions are informed by him alone. On the broader question of the forging of a link between national party politics and student politics, he believes that both should be separate and that the upcoming elections should not be obscured by extraneous issues and rather be more focused “on the people and the policies.” Asked to sum up why, we the student of NUI Galway, should vote for him, he said he brings three important things to the campaign, and hopefully to the office of Education Officer; “honesty, hard work and approachability,” three qualities that typify what one requires in as a Students’ Union Officer.

{sin}

W e l f a re Off i c er

The Vice-President / Welfare Officer is responsible for:

Welfare Officer

• Co-ordination and delivery of Welfare Campaigns on relevant welfare issues e.g. SHAG • Providing a confidential listening and referral service • Representing students on University committees in relation to student welfare • Dealing with individual requests from students • Keeping the Executive and students informed of all welfare matters • Organise and Chair the Welfare forum • Providing welfare information through the publication of leaflets, posters and/or books • Reviewing and drafting welfare policy • Representing the Union in USI events and attending

USI events, especially in regard to the Welfare Working Group and other welfare related areas • Providing information on student entitlements and rights

The position of Vice-President / Welfare Officer means being clued in to all student welfare issues, being a voice for students within the University and also being an important member of the Executive Committee. As Vice- President, this officer is very involved with the day-to-day running of the Union, and helps with all Union campaigns and events.

Issues that previous Vice-President / Welfare Officers have worked on include: • Ensuring students are well informed about their accommodation rights • Promoting an awareness of sexual health through ongoing campaigns and targeted campaigns such as SHAG Week • Encouraging student well-being through the provision of information on the website and in the diary • Improving student safety by establishing the Campus Watch committee and continuing to liaise with campus security and community Garda • Working with Student Services to ensure adequate service for students in distress • Together with USI, working to improve funding for services in the University • Aiming to raise awareness of the many services available to students, e.g. the PleaseTalk campaign.

{11}

Sarah McCarthy “I believe in equality and basic freedoms and rights.” By Conor Lane The Welfare Officer position in the Students’ Union is arguably the most emotionally and psychologically draining position to hold. From dealing with issues ranging from financial hardship, the death of a fellow student, or unplanned pregnancy, it is not an easy job to undertake. I spoke with Sarah McCarthy, at twenty year-old second year Arts student, studying human rights with history, sociology and politics. When asked about her political background, Sarah explained: “I’m an active member of FEE, putting myself on the left of the spectrum and I’m the auditor of the United Left Society. I would call myself a socialist. I believe in equality and basic freedoms and rights. I’ve been involved in a lot of different causes like Palestine and FEE. I used to be a part of Labour Youth but I left after Ruari Quinn didn’t reverse the registration fee after he said he would.” She doesn’t see the students’ union as a springboard to a potential political career, as she describes herself as having no interest in Irish politics: “I’m more interested in journalism or human rights work.” When asked about the fact that there is a member of FEE running for every position, she says it makes sense because, “we’re all passionate about students’ rights and believe in the principle of free education.” She makes the point that the best way to do this is through the students’ union as they represent students on a much larger scale. She is not supported by any society or organisation for this election but has a close network of friends and members of FEE to call upon if she needs help. Sarah’s campaign budget is relatively small in comparison to some other candidates. She is encouraged by the fact that a recent motion has outlawed the distribution of ‘freebies’ in

Students’ Union Elections. She does not believe it is necessary to spend more than she has to in order to win: she feels that the election should be about the issues at hand. Sarah spoke of how she was inspired to run for Welfare Officer around two months ago when she saw a video about the economic crisis in Ireland. Its description of how the suicide rate among men in Ireland, which has risen to an average of ten per week, while nearly 1,500 people are emigrating has made her want to stay in Ireland and contribute towards a way of getting out of this mess. Like the many of us, she’s not sure where she’ll be in five years but she thinks there’s a good chance that she’ll be doing something with women’s rights or education, potentially in Africa. Sarah is not aware of any trash campaigning going on but her motto if there is, is “rise above it and don’t engage in it.” Sarah realises that the Welfare position is a particularly hard one to undertake, but she plans on bringing a friendly approach and emphasising the importance of talking to and addressing people. She sees no complications in dealing with the differences between private

issues and public problems. There are, of course, many demands for the role. Should she be elected, she says she will undertake any course that could help her with the job, such as the Assist Suicide Intervention Course, and also see what the Rape Crisis Centre has to offer for practical training. Welfare has unquestionably become a tougher roll with each passing year. When asked how she would cope, Sarah responded that: “Working closely with the equality officer would be a big part of that. Through hard work, bringing in all the part-time officers and making sure that all officers are doing their jobs. I’m perfectly capable of doing many things at once although I’m not denying that it will be hard work”. She believes the strong support of her friends and family will be the support she needs should she ever feel over-whelmed by the job and would have no problem in availing of the counseling services available in NUI Galway. As a member of FEE, she believes that campaigning and tactics need to be stepped up in order to fight issues such as the postgraduate grant cuts and that when your protests are strong enough and loud enough, they work.

{12}

W e l f a re Off i c er

Dami Adebari

{sin}

Robin Allen

“If a friend calls and needs someone “I’m going to keep going as long as I have to talk to I am there for them.” to keep going and further if I need to.” By Kevin Kennedy Dami Adebari is a third year Public and Social policy student, and active member of the NUI Galway Soccer Club. Dami, who is running for the position of welfare officer in the upcoming Students’ Union elections boasts a strong manifesto that will appeal to many students. We met to discuss the upcoming elections and the challenges of the position. Dami emphasises the Welfare Officer’s role in making students’ aware of the services available to them: “There are many aspects to this such as campaigns in the areas of health, disability, career services and so on. It’s really just about getting the services out there to students.” He acknowledges that this role has changed in recent years, with the rising concern of the cost of education: “Fees and grants are also important as students who cannot afford to live may need assistance from services such as MABS or monetary funds and budget services.” He sees the position as vital to students’ happiness: “The welfare officer is a role model and you have to be there for the students. It’s a twenty-four hour job and you must be c o m mit-

ted and willing to listen.” Dami believes he has all the right skills for the job: “Firstly you need to be a leader but the major one is listening skills. You also need to have organisational skills, people skills and [be] hard-working.” He claimed that “commitment and compassion” are vital: “You can’t be in this for the money; you need to really care about the students.” He claimed that, “if the college announced that it would only pay for accommodation but no wage, I would still run for this office.” When asked about what inspired him to run for Welfare, Dami explained that he wanted “to make a difference and that difference [is] to bridge the gap between students and services.” The university services in existence are a core part of his plan if elected: “The services are here in the college already, they just need to be advertised more because students generally do not know where they are. I want to be the link between students and services. […] I want to educate people on the services that are available to them. Not all students are happy so I want to be the person that they can come and talk to and I can help them.” Dami believes a new approach is needed for the fees issue: “In the

areas of fees and grants, I am more focused on proper representation and campaigns that work rather than going about it the wrong way, as we have been doing. The welfare officer must make sure that they can cater for every group within college society.” The emotional demands of the Welfare officer position are widely acknowledged. Dami believes that “compassion, patience and a big heart are needed,” but will not shy away from the challenges: “I have a lot of life experience and have been through a lot of rough patches. When I have an assignment to submit and I’m up all night writing it, if a friend calls and needs someone to talk to I am there for them. I might not finish my assignment but I have helped someone in need. Life is like a 100m hurdle race: if things go well you’ll jump every hurdle, if you fall, some stay down and some get up and lift their legs higher. That is the type of person that I am. My experience will help me get through the emotional aspect of the job.” Throughout his time at NUI Galway Dami has been an active member of the campus community. He has served as Class Rep in first and third year. In first year Dami was elected to the union body, Academic Council, USI, and Arts Rep: “Any position within the Students’ Union that an undergrad could fill, I did it in first year.” He also works with sports and clubs. “I have a big heart and I am the type of person who would take the shirt off my own back and put it on your back.” He has dealt with all aspects of the role of Welfare officer and promises to make serious and effective change. He regards his promises as realistic and believes that he can achieve all of them if elected.

By Martina Gannon Robin Allen is “looking out for you” and intends to do this officially for students as welfare officer. Robin first came to NUI Galway in 2008 to do his BA, and is currently doing a Masters. He realised the importance of student representation when he became involved with the SU. He believes it is necessary for students have a voice, to prevent the government from walking all over them, and he wants to be that voice for students. Robin believes he is 100% suited to the role in terms of approachability as well as his experience as Equality Officer. He puts in long hours in the SU and says he has no problem with the immense emotional demands of the role. He believes that the most important thing is to be a strong enough character to deal with these issues, having some experience with student counselling from his time as Equality Officer: “Nobody is afraid to come ask me for stuff. I generally say ‘yes’ to people if it’s in my power to do it, even if it’ll take time.” When asked about his motivation in running for the position he cites former Welfare Officer, Emma Conway, and current officer Brian Grant as his inspiration. He adds that Emma “made it her life,” and that Brian was fantastic too. His belief in his ability is rooted in his experience as Equality Officer and dealing with related services on campus. He stresses that he will extricate himself from his Socs workload to focus on welfare if he wins. Robin aims to expand Health and Well-being courses, increasing their frequency: “It gives [students] confidence because they are acquiring life skills not specifically related to their course.” He intends to increase advertising of counselling services to dispel any of the stigma attached. Robin emphasises the progress he has already made

on his election promises. In his manifesto he promises to deliver a Night Bus to Corrib Village, and is already liaising with bus companies to get it started. Access for disabled students is a major concern for Robin. He aims to put pressure on the university to bring in assessors to look at disabled access, and also bring back equality forums. He recounts his experience during his time as Equality Officer of shaming the university into paying to get a broken lift up and running that same afternoon. Robin proposes the formation of Welfare Committees, made up of interested students and class reps from all years. “It will be open to any student. It will aim to solve the minor as well as the major problems students have.” He is concerned about the student housing situation, and promises to act as liason between students and Corrib Village. “The fact that the university has taken over the management of Corrib Village means they are the ones we have to go after.” He makes it clear that he has absolutely no qualms in “embarrassing” the university into getting what services are needed for students, and claims he will protest if these are not achieved. “I have conducted one-man protests

with placards and megaphones.” On the topic of his political background he openly admits he is a supporter of Fianna Fail, having recently returned though he disagreed with their tactics a few months earlier. He maintains that he does not think he will run for any political office beyond student government. On trash campaigning, Robin claims that “without naming names” he is “well aware of trash campaigning” from other candidates: “My response, if someone approaches me and says ‘I heard this about you,’ is to tell them to relate the story to everyone, and also tell everyone who gave them the story.” Is he running to win? “My proposals are things I’m working on anyway and would like to get done regardless if someone else wins the election.” But, he interjects, he is “definitely running to win.” He would like the chance to continue the work he has done before and the best way to do that is in an official position. “I’ve worked all my life and I haven’t given up on anything I’ve started. I’m going to get in there, I’m going to help people and I’m going to keep going as long as I have to keep going and further if I need to. I’ll do it!”

{sin}

Election Special

{13}

No Platform Policy The “No Platform Policy” will be put to a referendum on Thursday, 8th March. Though passed by the Students’ Union Council on 7 November 2011, 500 members of the Students’ Union subsequently requested a referendum of the general student body on whether or not the No Platform Policy should be retained. 1. The Students’ Union will be mandated to automatically oppose any invitation to members of the organisations listed below to speak at this university. 2. Students’ Union Officers shall be prohibited from sharing a public platform with members of the listed organisations. 3. Organisations may be added and removed by ballot of NUI Galway Students’ Union Council. Proposals will be submitted by class reps or Students’ Union Executive Officers. 4. The list of organisations under the No Platform Policy shall be reserved for organisations that are deemed to be fascist and/or racist by the Students’ Union Council.

Organisations included in the No Platform Policy • BNP • Combat 18 • Hizb ut- Tahrir • MPAC UK (Muslim Public Affairs Committee) • The National Front. • Democratic Right Movement • MPAC Ireland • National Front parties from various other EU countries • The Racial Volunteer Force (Splinter group from C18) • Blood and Honour • British Movement/British National Socialist Movement • Column 88

Yes to the Referendum: No to a Platform for Fascism and Hate

No to the Referendum: Yes to Freedom of Thought

By Frank Doherty

By Timothy Morrow

This article argues for a YES vote in the referendum: “That the Students’ Union will be mandated to automatically oppose any invitation to members of the listed organisations to speak at this university.” Opposition to the No Platform Policy is almost entirely based around liberal delusions concerning freedom of speech. In reality this is not a freedom of speech issue, it is a hate issue. The majority will agree - freedom of expression is important in any society which refers to itself as democratic. However, affording platforms in a public forum to those spouting bigoted views on race, nationality, religion and a multitude of other areas of human concern is both irresponsible and naive. According to LGBT campaigner, Phelim Mac Cafferty: “It is a fact that when fascists are allowed to speak, racist and homophobic attacks, violence and intimidation increase, and there is a world of difference between defending free speech and choosing to provide a platform for fascists.” If a fascist speaks in NUI Galway, it could lead to a spike in hate attacks in Galway, encouraging those who already hold these views in a closeted fashion. Universities are intended to be institutions of informed and relevant debate: fascist ideas are neither informed nor relevant. Let us for a moment clarify the debate - who are

these fascists? In 2009, the Literary and Debating Society invited David Irving, a convicted Holocaust denier and fascist, to speak. The debate was cancelled due to security concerns, but he came very close to getting an opportunity to spread his repulsive ideas from a prestigious university platform. At that time, Lit & Deb argued that they could make Irving look like a fool and cut across his ideas, thereby discrediting him. However, as anti-fascist campaigners argued at the time, there is no debating with fascism and Holocaust denial. According to the judge in the Lipstadt trial, Justice Gray: Irving’s “numerous mistakes and egregious errors are not due to mere ignorance or sloppiness: on the contrary, it is obvious that they are calculated and deliberate.” The main aim of fascists is not rational debate. It’s about securing respectability in the eyes of the public and more importantly using platforms to meet prospective followers. Although fascism doesn’t currently have a foothold in Ireland, for fascists it doesn’t matter whether they have a mass following or a democratic mandate, they start their programme of attacks whenever they get a group of thugs organised. Secondly, there is a basis for fascism to grow in Ireland. The small groups of thugs currently active are sure to benefit from the economic crisis and growing alienation from mainstream parties. People

are angry and disillusioned with mainstream parties because of their role in the recession and are looking for alternatives. The story sold by the establishment is so contrasting with their everyday lives that they may find that radical ideas, however irrational, have appeal. Tensions in Ireland are increasing, with ethnic and other minorities regularly targeted. Similar conditions led to the rise of the BNP in Britain, who now have an electoral base. Since the 1990s the National Union of Students (NUS) in Britain have mandated a No Platform Policy. Union officers cannot attend events where a platform is given to a fascist or racist, as their presence could legitimise views being put forward. The growth of fascism in Britain is far more significant than in Ireland but this does not mean that we can become complacent when it comes to the validation of these abhorrent views. John Stuart Mill is often quoted by those who argue for complete freedom of speech, but one important limitation to this rule, as stated by Mill, is that such a platform cannot be used to do harm. Freedom of expression is as much a responsibility as a right and therefore harmful views must be obstructed. Facism is inherently harmful, and allowing it space to grow will limit the rights of others. Hate speech, racism and bigotry cannot be allowed to develop on our campus.

The No Platform Policy passed by the Student Council should be repealed. It is, in my opinion, an infringment upon societies on campus, a distraction for the Students’ Union and a denial of freedom of speech. Firstly, the Students’ Union shouldn’t be interfering with student societies and their right to invite guests, which possibly only a few members of the union deem inappropriate. I assume this policy is directed at societies, but it is unclear. The SU surely has more import things to be doing than screening guests, who may or may not, be deemed controversial. The SU should not be mandated to ‘automatically’ oppose these organisations and its members. Shouldn’t the SU be a neutral voice, whose sole interest is the welfare of students? If elected members of the SU wish to campaign or protest against certain people invited into the university, they are free to do so. However, to say the entire union should be forced to will likely go against the views of some elected Officers. The whole motion is so ambigous that it is unclear how far the SU would have to go anyway. By ‘oppose’, does it mean protest, censor or even ban? If passed, the No Platform Policy may give certain SU figures justification to interfere with societies and as it is so vague, they will claim the force of the union in doing whatever action they

feel necessary. The second clause is that SU Officers will be mandated to not attend events and speak out against perceived racism. Wouldn’t it be more effective if SU Officers engaged with these people and challenged them directly on their views? The third clause gives Students’ Union Class Representatives discretion to add or drop organizations from the black list. If representative of 17,000 students from divergent political, religious and ideological backgrounds, how long will this list become? Who will be left to speak? We cannot regulate freedom of thought. Universities are a bastion of free speech. Along with expanding your horizons and challenging both yourself and your beliefs, your time at university may be the only time in our lives where we can speak freely and discuss controversial issues. If you deny students the opportunity to decide for themselves whether a speaker is correct or not, the chances are that racist sentiment will increase as these views are left unopposed. We give legitimacy to perceived racists when we won’t even point out to them and to each other, through debate, why they are wrong. You cead all the moral high ground. There are plenty of organisations who we could deny a forum on campus. Why not sectarian or sexist groups for example? How wide should we cast the net? With 17,000 students to represent, agreement

within the Students’ Union will be difficult. The idea that all of these groups are unacceptable is, in itself a bigoted, belief. Many of the groups on the banned list are of a right-wing persuasion. Are we not discriminating against students who ascribe to this ideology? Will this not lead to greater intolerance on campus where the SU gives sanction that their beliefs are wrong? Wouldn’t you feel angry if your SU implied you were racist? Why not tackle racism head on, on campus and don’t force these beliefs underground where they become more dangerous? This ver y debate detracts from the campaign to end racism everywhere. If a speaker is invited on campus, let them have their say and let the students decide for themselves what they think. If they really are racist, it will be shown. There is a difference between giving someone like Nick Griffin a microphone and a platform from which to rally support, versus debating an issue against an informed opposition. I have no doubt that any NUIG student has the intelligence to acknowledge as ludicrous many of the ideas Nick Griffin and the BNP hold. History has shown that suppressing these views doesn’t work. Bring them into the open and challenge them head on. Until you can prove why their opinions are wrong then, while we may disagree with them, we should defend their right to say them.

{14}

Election Special

{sin}

Understanding the USI By Kevin Kennedy

The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has been heard of by nearly every student on every college campus across the country, but it’s a reasonable assumption that not many of these students know what exactly the USI is or does. The USI was set up in 1959 as a body of representation for students across Ireland. The real work of the USI is pretty similar to what you would find is being done by each Students’ Union, just on a wider scale. The USI fight across the board for many important issues of concern to students. The Union is an able representation

when it comes to issues such as the maintaining of equality within education in Ireland, which allows all people the equal opportunity to attain a higher education irrespective of their race, creed, sex or what seems to be the most highlighted issue at the moment: economic circumstances. The USI also work hard to represent students in other sectors such as housing, where they ensure that suitable accommodation is available for students across the country. Training courses are also offered by the organisation to help develop the skills of those who are elected to individual Students’ Unions so that col-

lege goers can receive the best services and leaders possible. The USI employ an officer to each area of the country, so for us here in Galway we get the assistance of the Western Area Officer. The current Western Area Officer, and a familiar face at NUI Galway’s SU Council, is Breffni Gorman, a student from Sligo IT who works closely with colleges in the west of Ireland. She is running unopposed for the same role, dubbed the Vice-President for the Border, Midlands & Western Region under the new constitution. There are many positions available on the USI, which are filled through an election

each year at National Congress. Under the new USI constitution, adopted at a special congress last month, these roles include: The President, the NUS-USI President (essentially the Northern Area Officer, representing students in Northern Ireland who fall between the USI and t h e U K ’s N a t i o n a l Union of Students), and six Vice Presidents for: Academic Affairs & Quality Assurance; Welfare; Campaigns; Equality & Citizenship; the Border, Midlands

College Bar Signature Pizzas just €9 Pizza & Pitcher from €17

MONDAYS: 2 for 1 on Signature Pizzas* FRIDAYS: Half Price Pizza & Pitcher*



Union elections: candidates must draw up a manifesto and put weeks upon weeks of work into campaigning for the positions. Many students of NUIG have been members of the USI Officerboard in the past, most notably Eamon Gilmore, who served two terms as the president of the USI and was also the Students’ Union President here at NUIG, and also more recently Peter Mannion who also served as president of the USI and the Students’ Union.

A Power Above Power: The USI President By Cormac O’Malley

OUR AMAZING STONE OVEN PIZZAS AVAILABLE FROM 6PM—10PM

and Western Region; the Southern Region; the Irish Language & Culture. The way the election process is run is quite different to that of any Students’ Union election as each member of the USI sends its chosen delegate to vote at National Congress. The nomination of candidates for the USI is done by each member’s Students’ Union. In the area of campaigning the USI elections are much like those that you would see for any Students’

The talk of the town this past week has been about the Students’ Union elections, but to use a boardroom analogy, those upstairs, the USI, are also preparing to have their elections. As would be expected, the person that we immediately see as being the face of the USI is its president. The USI president bears overall responsibility of the union, and allocates duties among officers. It is also the president who deals with the media when necessary and who represents student views to the HEA (Higher Education Authority). The incumbent president of USI is former Vice President and President of UCD Students’ Union, Gary Redmond. He has been USI president for the past two years: having run unopposed in the electoral process for the 2011/2012 term. After increases in the student contribution charge from €2,000 to €2,250 in last year’s budget, he has called upon Minister for Education, Ruairí Quinn, to come clean about how these changes will affect students and their families nationwide. All of this after Ruairí Quinn broke his promise

to students that he would not support any increases in student fees if elected. As expected all of this was quite rightfully scrutinised by the USI. Gary’s Redmond’s position as USI president is now to be contested by President of DIT SU, Ciarán Nevin and John Logue of UCD. Ciaran Nevin, has a long history of involvement in student politics, currently serving out his second term as President of DIT’s Students’ Union. He has represented his college at National Congress since 2005. In 2006 he was a founding member of DIT’s award-winning Comedy Society, and is also a recepient of a National Engineers Ireland Award. UCD man John Logue has previously served on the USI Ovvicerboard, as deputy president/Eastern Area Officer in 2010-2011. He ran for the Education Officer position on the Students’ Union at UCD in 2010 as a relative unknown, described then by our colleagues in The University Observer as a member of the university’s Ógra Fianna Fáil group, the Kevin Barry Cumann. He studied Law in UCD and represented students there on the Staff/Student Consultative Forum before

becoming involved in Students’ Union politics. Like any politician, the USI President regularly makes trips around the country, to members of the USI including NUI Galway and GMIT. Like other members of the Officerboard, it is the President’s duty to leave their comfy seats in Dublin 12 and show support for events ranging from mental health to student marchesall of this accompanied by the kissing of the foreheads of 1st year Arts students and what not. We can find comfort in the fact that with a new USI come bright new ideas and new faces. With a new USI president, we will have a new figure in which we can place our trust our aspirations and our hope as they will represent us students on all levels - having said that, there will not be any reduction in our scrutiny of their achievements. When did this all become so complex? Well it never did and may never be, unless we have mock candidate who would win in both elections and humour us with their frivolous proposals. Would that not brighten us all up and clear the fog of gloominess that exists? It certainly sounds tempting.

{sin}

Election Special

The Sin Spectator You know that there is an election on when posters of crooked smiling candidates are hung all around campus, when your doorstep is molested by cherubfaced students hoping to have you vote for them, so they can implement their ego-engineered policies. This year’s candidates are particularly interesting. For President, we have the founder of Ents Soc and BizSoc Auditor, Paul Curley, and current Equality Officer Will O’Brien running for the position. Paul came second in the Presidential Election last year, and had at the time as one of his policies a student music festival in Greenfields. Given that there are already the Arts, Commerce, Law and Postgraduate balls, having a student music festival is an odd priority. Do students need another opportunity to further fulfill their bad name as alcoholic hooligans? However, in last year’s elections Paul was one of the few candidates who consistently raised the issue of Gym membership and the need for a referendum. Paul is a proven leader, and can handle the financial side of the Students’ Union competently. His ability to think fast and coordinate a large committee will serve him well. Will, who is Equality officer, is heavily involved with FEE. Being active against fees is very important, but one must question of Will, whether he is losing touch with the average student with his passionate activism. Being involved with so many protest groups also bears the question, while Will O’Brien may be against many things, what is he for? It’s been no secret that there has been a divide in the current Students’ Union Executive. If elected as President, Will must be more moderate, because

when students vote, it’s never for a disjointed committee. However, Will’s wearing his politics on his sleeve may serve him well as voters will respect that he knows what he stands for. Running for Welfare are Dami Adebari, Robin Allen and Sarah McCarthy. We cannot call this one. Dami’s involvement with clubs may serve him well electorally, as it did Brian Grant. However Dami’s diverse background means he has no core group from whom he can guarantee votes: the same applies to Robin. Dami is also involved with a lot of volunteering and has shown in the past his interest in student issues, given his attendance last year at USI congress. Sarah McCarthy, like Will, is very involved with student activ ism, and took part in last week’s march. Her involvement with FEE and Labour Youth shows consistency in what matters to her and others. However the Welfare position requires one-toone student assistance as well as shouting into a megaphone. Lastly, former Equality Officer, Robin Allen who is auditor of Comedy Soc has been around for a while. His previous SU experience and his heavy campus involvement make him a worthy candidate. While he has experience on his side, voters may wish for a fresh face. His Fianna Fáil background may not help him either, as opponents will take any chance any to grill him on that. The race for education officer carries five c a n d i d a t e s : Ta t i a n a Brusilovskya, Eibhlín Fennelly, Conor Stitt, Rory Kitt and David O’Reilly. Tatiana is a mature student from Russia and has only been here since September which is not in her favour. She claims

to have no politics at all and this questions the quality of her candidacy identity and whether she is qualified for the job. She also claims to be involved with FEE which the group have themselves denied, claiming her involvement has only been since last Wednesday’s march. Eibhlín appears to have come out of nowhere and is a member of FEE. The group that she represents kicked fellow education candidate, Conor Stitt out of their group because one of his policies is to introduce an affordable laptop scheme- FEE see this as commercialization, though such a scheme would be undoubtedly practical and beneficial for students. Conor is running for education for the second year in a row. One of his policies is to add to a Jobs.ie type page to Blackboard. This (like so many other policies) is something voters should challenge candidates on the practicality of. Conor may find it hard to get elected without the support of FEE, however it is fair to say he is a fore-runner in this race. Rory Kitt is heavily involved with clubs and has very strong family connections to Fianna Fáil. Rory claims to be an independent thinker, but this does not mean that he has no politics whatsoever? Would this autonomy be foolish if elected? Is he cutting of his nose to spite his face? Lastly, David O’Reilly is an interesting character, and seems to have education at heart. He wishes to introduce anonymous marking, but this is nothing new, it comes up every year. He also proposes extra tutorials for students. Again, this is not within his power and appears to be more idealism on his part. It’s understandable why some students do

not care about these elections, especially the monotony of it all: the leaflets, the embarrassingly bright t-shirts, the posters worthy of no art gallery in the lands. And last but not least, the policies that come up every year, most of which are quickly soaked up by the sponge of amnesia. It’s that same monotony that adds to the frivolity of it all. But cynicism aside, remember this: many students go to the Student Union throughout the year for help or to instigate change. Some of these matters are personal, some are not and some are matters relevant to all students. It’s for those reasons that 9 March, the count, is a date to mark on the calendar.

{15}

You've read all the candidate profiles and you think you've decided how you're going to vote. But anything can happen during election week, so keep clued-in, just in case it all goes horribly wrong for your chosen candidate.

Follow @Sin_News, for updates throughout election week. To join the conversation Tweet: #NUIGSU12

Listen Live on at FlirtFM.ie

Subscribe to STVGalway.

  



 

Go do your thing Get one of 2,000 FREE return flights to Europe

Offer available when you take out a student credit card or travel loan between 23 January and 30 June 2012. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to be over 18 and hold a Bank of Ireland 3rd level student account and there are lending criteria, terms and conditions.

Drop into our NUI Galway branch today Call Kevin on 087 7742206 or Bernadette on 087 7811318 Find us at www.facebook.com/smartlounge Bank of Ireland is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

SM666 - STUDENT AIRPORT ADVERT.indd 1

27/01/2012 11:29