MSU Constitution

Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad The Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Contents: Preamble

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Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article

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1 – Title 2 – Aims and Objectives 3 – Membership 4 – Rights and Obligations of Members 5 – Government of the Union 6 – Referendum 7 – Union General Meeting 8 – Union Council 9 – The Executive Committee 10 – Officers of the Union 11 – Impeachment and Discipline 12 – Clubs and Societies Council 13 – The Board of Trustees 14 – Elections and Resignations 15 – Policy 16 – Interpretation and Amendment of the Constitution 17 – Revocation and Enactment

Schedule Schedule Schedule Schedule Schedule Schedule Schedule Schedule

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– – – – – – – –

Standing Orders of Union Meetings Elections Standing Committees of Union Council Definitions Transitory Provisions Standing Committees of the Board of Trustees The Capitation Committee Standing Committees of Clubs and Societies Council

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Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Preamble We the students of the National University of Ireland, Maynooth; Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth; the Pontifical University and National Seminary of Ireland and all their associated campuses across Ireland (hereinafter called the “The University” which expression shall where the context so admits or requires includes its successors in title and permitted assigns) do hereby unite and form a union to represent our members to the Colleges and other bodies.

The Union shall represent all students and shall be the sole representative organisation for students. It is recognised as such by the Governing Authority of the National University of Ireland, Maynooth and the Governing Body of Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth.

The Union shall be a democratically governed association which shall represent the rights of students without bias, fear or favour, and shall be respectful of the differing views within the membership, but accountable to those members for the exercise of our powers.

This constitution hereby revokes all previous constitutions.

Articles of the Constitution Article 1 – Title The name of the organisation shall be Maynooth Students’ Union. The name of the Union in the Irish language shall be Aontas na Mac Léinn, Má Nuad.

Article 2 – Aims and Objectives The aims and objectives of the Union shall be the promotion and furtherance of any matters of interest to its membership, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, in particular: 2.1

To act as the recognised means of communication between the members of the Union and the authorities of the University.

2.2

To act as a representative body for its members and other students of the University.

2.3

To promote the principles of democratisation at all levels of higher education through collective and individual participation of the members of the Union.

2.4

To provide and manage social, recreational and commercial services for the benefit of its members.

2.5

To promote the expansion and development of student services as provided by the University for the benefit of students.

2.6

To promote discussion and research on all matters of interest to the Union and particularly on matters pertaining to the education and welfare of the members of the Union and other students of the University.

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Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

2.7

To provide the structures and means whereby students can partake in an ongoing revaluation of the educational process and become more positively involved in their education.

2.8

To promote the unity of the organisation and contact between members through assisting clubs, societies and other organisations of students within the University.

2.9

To ensure that no member is discriminated against on grounds of gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, political belief, age, disability, race or membership of the Traveller community.

Article 3 – Membership 3.1

Membership of the Union shall be as follows

3.1.1

All registered students of NUI Maynooth, St Patrick’s College Maynooth, or the Pontifical University of Ireland.

3.1.2

All registered students pursuing recognised degree or diploma courses awarded by any of the above named institutions.

3.1.3

Visiting students for the duration of their attendance at any of the above named institutions.

3.1.3.1

Visiting students shall not be entitled to run for election, and shall only be entitled to vote if they are registered for a full academic year.

3.1.4

All Executive officers are members by virtue of their office and position as registered students.

3.2

Honorary membership may be conferred on any person who is not a member of the Union nominated by the Executive, subject to confirmation by a two-thirds majority of Union Council.

3.2.1

There may be no more than three honorary memberships conferred in any academic year.

3.2.2

Upon completion of their term of office all sabbatical officers will automatically be deemed honorary lifetime members of the Union, notwithstanding 3.2.1 above.

3.2.3

Honorary members shall be entitled to the same rights as ordinary members with the exception of the right to vote or stand for election.

Article 4 – Rights and Obligations of Members 4.1

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All ordinary members shall have the following rights:

Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

4.1.1

To use facilities and premises that the Union provides, with the exception of the offices, which shall be subject to the discretion of the executive.

4.1.2

To become members of clubs and societies within the Union and to hold office in such clubs and societies.

4.1.3

To vote in Union elections.

4.1.4

To hold full voting rights at Union General Meetings, and the right to speak subject to standing orders.

4.1.5

To run for, and hold office in the Union subject to Union regulations.

4.1.6

To appeal any action of the Union to the Elections and Appeals Committee of the Board of Trustees in such a manner as is laid out in Schedule 6.2 of this constitution.

4.2

All members are subject to the following obligations:

4.2.1

Full members shall be in possession of their student card at all times while on Union premises, and shall present it on request from any member of Union staff.

4.2.2

All members are subject to the rules of the Club Management Committee and may have their rights to use the facilities and premises of the Union removed if found to be in breach of these regulations. There will be no refund of membership fee in this case.

Article 5 – Government of the Union 5.1

Subject to this Constitution, the powers of Government of the Union shall be vested in, and exercised by the organs established by this Constitution; namely in descending order of authority:

5.1.1

Referendum.

5.1.2

Union General Meeting.

5.1.3

Union Council.

5.1.4

The Executive.

5.1.5

The President.

5.2

Policy may only be altered or revoked at the same or higher level of government at which it was enacted.

5.3

All documentation produced by the President, the Executive, members of Union Council and Union employees in the course of their duties shall remain at all times the property of the Union.

Article 6 – Referendum

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

6.1

A referendum of all the members of the Union shall be the supreme authority on all matters relating to the government of the Union.

6.2

A referendum on any issue shall be called by the Returning Officer on receipt of a written request from any the following:

6.2.1

The President

6.2.2

The Executive.

6.2.3

Union Council.

6.2.4

Union General Meeting.

6.2.5

10% or more of the membership of the Union, by way of petition.

6.3

The procedures and rules of Referenda shall be as follows:

6.3.1

The quorum for a referendum shall be 15% of the membership.

6.3.1.1

If quorum is not reached the question shall be referred to Union Council for review before it can be submitted to referendum for a second time.

6.3.2

The referendum shall be held by not less than five days and not more than ten days after being called on a date to be decided by the Returning Officer.

6.3.3

Students shall have access to full information and opportunity to publicly debate the question being voted on. The following must be provided in this spirit by the Executive:

6.3.3.1 6.3.3.2

A full text copy of the motion will be available to all students, and distributed throughout all major University buildings frequented by students.

A meeting of ordinary Union members will be called to provide information to members about, and a forum in which to debate, the question being voted upon.

6.3.4

A referendum motion shall be deemed to have been carried if it receives a simple majority of the votes in its favour. In the result of a tied vote the motion shall be deemed to have fallen.

6.4

The President shall ensure the implementation of any decision made by referendum.

Article 7 – Union General Meeting 7.1

A general meeting of the membership of the Union, called the Union General Meeting shall, subject to the provisions of this Constitution, have the power to overrule and annul, either wholly or partly, any decision, resolution or any expression by any other organ of the Union, except referenda, and to establish policy binding on any other organ of the Union, except referenda, providing that no such decision shall have retrospective effect.

7.2

A Union General Meeting shall be called by the Chairperson of Union Council on receipt of a written request from any of the following:

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

7.2.1 The President.

7.2.2 The Executive.

7.2.3 Union Council.

7.2.4 10% or more of the membership of the Union, by way of petition.

7.3

The procedures and rules of Union General Meetings shall be as follows:

7.3.1 The quorum for a Union General Meeting shall be 5% of the membership.

7.3.1.1

If quorum is not reached the agenda shall be submitted to Union Council for review before it can be submitted to Union General Meeting for a second time.

7.3.2 A Union General Meeting shall be held by not less than three days and not more than five days after being called on a date to be decided by the Chairperson of Union Council.

7.3.3 Members shall have knowledge and notice of the Union General Meeting before its assembly. The following must be provided in this spirit by the Executive: 7.3.3.1

Advertisements shall be placed on notice-boards in all buildings frequented by students including the date, time, venue, and agenda of the Union General Meeting at least three days before the date of the Union General Meeting.

7.3.4 Any motion at Union General Meeting shall be deemed to have been carried if it receives a simple majority of the votes in favour. In the result of a tied vote the motion shall be deemed to have fallen.

7.3.5 The chairperson shall be the Chairperson of Union Council and the secretary shall be the Secretary of Union Council.

7.3.5.1

In either of their absences the deputy Chairperson or Secretary of Union Council shall fill the relevant role.

Article 8 – Union Council 8.1

The governing body of the Union shall be the Union Council.

8.2

Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, Union policy on any matter shall be determined by Union Council upon a simple majority of those members of Union Council present at a validly called and quorate Union Council meeting. Union policy shall include mandates for Union Officers and any Union delegations.

8.3

Union Council shall be made up of:

8.3.1

The Executive.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

8.3.2

Class Representatives elected by ordinary members of the Union from their individual constituencies.

8.4

Class Representatives shall:

8.4.1

Be directly elected by the members of the Union in their constituency as outlined in article 14 below.

8.4.2

Attend meetings of Union Council, or if unable to do so, forward apologies to the Secretary of Union Council.

8.4.3

Regularly inform their constituents of the deliberations of Union Council and act on behalf of their constituents at Union Council.

8.4.4

Make representations to the University authorities on issues affecting their constituents.

8.4.5

Attend Class Representative training.

8.4.6

Liaise with Union Council on matters relating to students of their constituency.

8.4.7

Liaise with the representative to the Executive for their relevant faculty.

8.5

Union council shall normally meet six times per year, with three meetings per semester.

8.6

An Emergency Union Council shall be called by the Returning officer on the receipt of a written request from any of the following:

8.6.1

The President.

8.6.2

The Executive.

8.6.3

One-third of Union Council members.

8.7

At least twenty-four hours notice shall be given for an Emergency Union Council.

8.8

At its inaugural meeting Union Council shall elect from among its number the following officers:

8.8.1

Chair of Union Council.

8.8.1.1 8.8.1.2 8.8.1.3

8.8.2

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Who shall have been a member of the Council for at least one of the previous two years.

Who shall be a non-voting, non-participating member of the Council.

Who shall preside over and regulate meetings of Council.

Secretary of Union Council:

Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

8.8.2.1 8.8.2.2 8.8.2.3 8.8.2.4 8.8.2.5

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Who shall have been a member of the Council for at least one of the previous two years.

Who shall be a non-voting, non-participating member of the Council.

Who shall prepare and publish the attendance list and minutes of each Union Council meeting at least two days prior to the following meeting.

Who shall prepare and publish the agenda of each Union Council meeting at least two days prior to the meeting.

Who shall keep and maintain the policy manual of the Union, recording all motions passed by Union Council, Union General Meeting and Referendum.

8.8.3

There shall also be elected a Deputy Chair and Deputy Secretary to perform the duties of the Chair and Secretary in their absence.

8.8.4

The first meeting of Union Council shall be convened by the Returning Officer, who will occupy the chair until the Chairperson has been elected.

8.9

Decisions made by Union Council shall require:

8.9.1

A simple majority at an ordinary meeting of Union Council.

8.9.2

A two-thirds majority at an emergency meeting of Union Council.

8.10

In the event of a tied vote, the motion shall be deemed to have fallen.

8.11

Quorum shall consist of fifty percent plus one of those entitled to attend and vote.

8.12

Union Council shall have as many policy making sub-committees as it deems necessary to conduct its business.

8.13

There shall be the following standing committees of Union Council

8.13.1 8.13.2 8.13.3 8.13.4

Campaigns, Welfare & Equality Committee.

Education Committee.

Entertainments Committee.

Constitutional and Representative Review Committee.

8.14

Union Council shall be bound by the Standing Orders of Union Meetings, contained in Schedule 1 of the Constitution.

8.15

Any Member of Union Council shall be deemed to have resigned if they fail to attend three consecutive meetings of Union Council. The member in question may be reinstated on appeal by agreement of the Chair of Union Council and the President of the Union, where the member has been unable to attend due to exceptional circumstances.

8.16

The term of office of Union Council shall be from the date of the first meeting of the academic year to the 30th of June of the following year.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Article 9 – The Executive Committee 9.1

Subject to Union Council, the Executive shall be responsible for the day to day running of the Union in addition to each officer’s own portfolio.

9.2

Membership of the Executive shall consist of:

9.2.1 9.2.2 9.2.3 9.2.4 9.2.5 9.2.6 9.2.7 9.2.8 9.2.9 9.2.10 9.2.11

President Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development Vice President for Services, Events and Communications Vice President for Welfare and Equality Irish Language and Cultural Affairs Officer Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy Representative Social Sciences Representative Science and Engineering Representative Theology Representative First Year Representative Postgraduate Representative

9.3

The Executive Committee shall meet on at least one occasion per week during termtime and once per month during vacation.

9.3.1 Additional meetings of the Executive can be called by 9.3.1.1 The President 9.3.1.2 Four members of the Executive 9.3.2

At least twenty-four hours notice shall be given for normal meetings of the Executive.

9.3.3

At least six hours notice shall be given for additional meetings of the Executive.

9.3.4

Quorum shall consist of 50% + 1 of those entitled to attend and vote.

9.3.5

In the event of a tied vote, the motion shall be referred to the next meeting of Union Council.

9.3.6

The Chairperson of the Executive shall be the President, and the Secretary and Convenor shall be the Vice President for Welfare and Equality.

9.4

Attendance at Executive Committee meetings shall be compulsory for all those entitled to attend and vote.

9.4.1

Apologies should be directed to the secretary of the executive.

9.4.2

Any member who misses more than two consecutive meetings, any four meetings in a single semester, or any eight meetings of the executive without apologies being accepted shall be deemed to have resigned.

9.4.2.1

9.5

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The member in question may be reinstated on appeal by agreement of the President of the Union, where the member has been unable to attend due to exceptional circumstances.

The term of office for the officers outlined in 9.2.1 – 9 above shall be July 1st to June 30th of the following year.

Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

9.6

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

The term of office for the officers outlined in 9.2.10 and 9.2.11 shall be from the date of their election in the first semester to June 30th of the following year.

Article 10 – Officers of the Union 10.1

The President shall

10.1.1 Be directly elected by the members of the Union and responsible to Union Council.

10.1.2 Take sabbatical leave from his / her studies for the duration of his / her term of office.

10.1.3 Be a paid employee of the Union, at a rate to be decided by the Board of Trustees of the Union.

10.1.4 Be the first officer of the Union and shall be ultimately responsible for the administration of the Union. All officers and staff of the Union shall be ultimately responsible to the President.

10.1.5 Be responsible for preparing a master budget for the Union projecting income and expenditure at the beginning of the academic year, and ensuring strict adherence to that budget.

10.1.6 Be responsible for preparing the annual plan of work, for approval at the first meeting of Union Council that year.

10.1.7 Be the primary student representative to the Governing Authority, Academic Council and Faculties of the University.

10.1.7.1

The President shall have the authority to nominate the second and other student representatives to any committee or body as requested.

10.1.8 Specify the order of succession amongst the Vice-Presidents.

10.1.9 Chair the Constitutional and Representative Review Committee of Union Council and provide a comprehensive review of the Union Constitution once every five years from the date of adoption of this Constitution.

10.1.10 Chair the Education Committee of Union Council and be responsible for formulating and enacting all Union Education policy.

10.1.11 Be ex-officio chair of all meetings of the Union, except where otherwise explicitly stated in the constitution but may delegate any of these positions to another officer.

10.1.12 Have plenary powers between meetings of the Executive to fulfil the aims and objectives of the Union, but shall be responsible to the Executive and Union Council for these actions.

10.1.13 Be the chief spokesperson of the Union and shall handle all media enquiries, but shall consult with the relevant officers and bodies before communicating Union policy.

10.1.14 Ensure that full crossover training is provided for all incoming officers of the Union.

10.1.15 Liaise between the Executive and the Board of Trustees between meeting of the Board of Trustees.

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10.2

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

The Vice-President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development shall

10.2.1 Be directly elected by the members of the Union and responsible to the President.

10.2.2 Take sabbatical leave from his / her studies for the duration of his / her term of office.

10.2.3 Be a paid employee of the Union, at a rate to be decided by the Board of Trustees of the Union.

10.2.4 Chair Clubs and Societies Council, as constituted at Article 12 below, and report to the Executive and Union Council on its deliberations and decisions.

10.2.5 Be responsible for the maintenance of an effective Class Representative system, to include co-ordination of training and development for class representatives.

10.2.6 Be responsible for training and development of club and society executives.

10.2.7 Maintain a full and up-to-date list of all clubs and societies and their contact information.

10.2.8 Communicate all relevant matters from the Union to the Clubs and Societies and from Clubs and Societies to the Union.

10.2.9 Oversee the running of the Clubs and Societies League and ensure the operation of an effective support structure for Clubs and Societies.

10.2.10 Aid and advise Clubs and Societies on the organisation of events and other activities.

10.2.11 Promote Clubs and Societies participation throughout the University.

10.2.12 Maintain the assets register for the Student Centre, Clubs, Societies and the Students’ Union.

10.2.13 Co-ordinate and manage the running of relevant campus-wide events including, but not limited to: 10.2.13.1 10.2.13.2 10.2.13.3

Sports Day Clubs and Societies Fairs Day Arts Week

10.2.14 Be responsible for the collation and implementation of recommendations in relation to the progression, improvement and stability of the Union.

10.3

The Vice President for Services, Events and Communications shall

10.3.1 Be directly elected by the members of the Union and responsible to the President.

10.3.2 Take sabbatical leave from his / her studies for the duration of his / her term of office.

10.3.3 Be a paid employee of the Union, at a rate to be decided by the Board of Trustees of the Union.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

10.3.4 Be responsible for the co-ordination of all Union publications with the exception of those that are editorially independent.

10.3.5 Be responsible for the co-ordination and distribution of all Union materials and notifications throughout the University including posters.

10.3.6 Administer the upkeep of the Union website.

10.3.7 Be responsible for the implementation of all recommendations in relation to the progression, improvement and stability of the Union’s services.

10.3.8 Once per academic term conduct a price-comparison survey of all the Union’s commercial services and competitors both in Maynooth and in comparable institutions in Ireland.

10.3.8.1

The Vice President for Services, Events and Communications shall compile the findings of these surveys for a report to Union Council and the Executive.

10.3.9 Make such recommendations as are appropriate to the Board of Trustees regarding the commercial services of the Union.

10.3.10 Be responsible, in conjunction with the entertainments committee for the organisation and promotion of all union entertainments.

10.3.11 Ensure, in conjunction with the Irish Language and Cultural Affairs Officer, that a minimum of 10% of all Union communications are conducted bilingually in English and Irish.

10.3.12 Once per semester conduct a survey of the membership regarding events provided by the union.

10.3.13 Create and maintain the annual events calendar.

10.4

The Vice President for Welfare and Equality shall

10.4.1 Be directly elected by the members of the Union and responsible to the President.

10.4.2 Take sabbatical leave from his / her studies for the duration of his / her term of office.

10.4.3 Be a paid employee of the Union, at a rate to be decided by the Board of Trustees of the Union.

10.4.4 Chair the Campaigns, Welfare & Equality Committee of Union Council.

10.4.5 Be responsible for the planning and implementation of at least four welfare campaigns per year.

10.4.6 Ensure the dignity and defence of the rights of the membership to the University and within the Students’ Union.

10.4.7 Ensure that no member is discriminated against on grounds of gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, political belief, age, disability, race or membership of the Traveller community.

10.4.8 Act as Secretary and convenor for the Executive Committee of the Union.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

10.4.9 Consult, in strict confidence with members regarding their welfare, and shall represent individuals when requested to the relevant body or authority.

10.4.10 Consult, in strict confidence with members in the event of discrimination by any member of the Union or University, and shall represent individuals when requested to the relevant body or authority.

10.4.11 Be responsible for formulating and enacting the Union’s welfare and equality policies.

10.5

The Irish Language and Cultural Affairs Officer shall

10.5.1 Be directly elected by the members of the Union and be responsible to the President.

10.5.2 Be a student of the University during their term of office.

10.5.3 Be fluent in the Irish language, to be capable of carrying out the duties of the office through the Irish language.

10.5.4 Represent the Union both to the University and external bodies as appropriate in the Irish language.

10.5.5 Represent the interests of relevant linguistic and cultural groups to the Executive and the University as appropriate.

10.5.6 In conjunction with the Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development and relevant student groups organise and co-ordinate cultural activities including, but not limited to, Seachtain na Gaeilge.

10.6

The Arts Celtic Studies and Philosophy Representative shall

10.6.1 Be directly elected by members of the Union in the faculty of Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy.

10.6.2 Be a student in the faculty of Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy during their term of office.

10.6.3 Liaise with the executive on matters relating to students of the faculty of Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy.

10.6.4 Convene at least one meeting per semester of class representatives of the faculty of Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy and report to the Executive on the findings and deliberations of the meeting.

10.7

The Social Sciences Representative shall

10.7.1 Be directly elected by members of the Union in the faculty of Social Sciences.

10.7.2 Be a student in the faculty of Social Sciences during their term of office.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

10.7.3 Liaise with the executive on matters relating to students of the faculty of Social Sciences.

10.7.4 Convene at least one meeting per semester of class representatives of the faculty of Social Sciences and report to the Executive on the findings and deliberations of the meeting.

10.8

The Science and Engineering Representative shall

10.8.1 Be directly elected by members of the Union in the faculty of Science and Engineering.

10.8.2 Be a student in the faculty of Science and Engineering during their term of office.

10.8.3 Liaise with the executive on matters relating to students of the faculty of Science and Engineering.

10.8.4 Convene at least one meeting per semester of class representatives of the faculty of Science and Engineering and report to the Executive on the findings and deliberations of the meeting.

10.9

The Theology Representative shall

10.9.1 Be directly elected by members of the Union in the faculty of Theology.

10.9.2 Be a student in the faculty of Theology during their term of office.

10.9.3 Liaise with the executive on matters relating to students of the faculty of Theology.

10.9.4 Convene at least one meeting per academic term of class representatives of the faculty of Theology and report to the Executive on the findings and deliberations of the meeting.

10.10

The Postgraduate Representative shall

10.10.1 Be directly elected by postgraduate members of the Union.

10.10.2 Be a postgraduate student during their term of office.

10.10.3 Liaise with the executive on matters relating to postgraduate students.

10.10.4 Convene at least one meeting per academic term of postgraduate class representatives and report to the Executive on the findings and deliberations of the meeting.

10.11

The First Year Representative shall

10.11.1 Be directly elected by members of the Union in the first year of their academic studies.

10.11.2 Be a first year student during their term of office.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

10.11.3 Liaise with the executive on matters relating to first year students.

10.11.4 Convene at least one meeting per academic term of first year class representatives and report to the Executive on the findings and deliberations of the meeting.

Article 11 – Impeachment and Discipline 11.1

Any officer of the Union may be impeached for stated misbehaviour as a result of a motion moved in Union Council or following a communication from the Board of Trustees.

11.2

The charge of impeachment must be moved by way of motion at Union Council who shall send the matter to the disciplinary committee of the Board of Trustees, subject to the provisions of this article.

11.3

The disciplinary committee shall investigate the charge, and the officer shall have the right to appear and be represented at the investigation of the charge.

11.3.1 The Union shall not be liable for any charges associated with the representation of the officer save those costs awarded by a court or tribunal of lawful jurisdiction.

11.4

A proposal to prefer a charge against the officer shall not be entertained unless:

11.4.1 A notice of motion in writing is signed by not less than one third of the membership of Union Council.

11.4.2 It has been forwarded in writing by the disciplinary committee, or 11.4.3 It has been forwarded in writing by the Board of Trustees.

11.5

If, as a result of the investigation, a resolution is passed, supported by not less than two thirds of a validly called and quorate meeting of Union Council, declaring that the charge preferred against the officer has been sustained and that the misbehaviour, the subject of the charge, was such as to render the officer unfit to continue in office, such a resolution shall operate to remove the officer from office with immediate effect.

11.6

Any person who has been impeached shall be banned from assuming office in the Union for a period of three years from the date of impeachment. This provision shall overturn all electoral mandates.

11.7

In the event of a charge of misbehaviour lesser than one which deems any officer unfit to continue in office, the President of the Union shall instruct the disciplinary committee to investigate and report to the Board of Trustees on the appropriate punishment in the event of the charge being upheld.

11.8

The disciplinary committee shall be bound by the provisions of Schedule 6 of this constitution.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Article 12 – Clubs and Societies Council 12.1

There shall be a forum for the discussion of issues relating to Clubs and Societies of the Union, called Clubs and Societies Council.

12.2

Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, bylaws relating to Clubs and Societies shall be determined by Clubs and Societies Council upon a simple majority vote of those members present at a validly called and quorate Clubs and Societies Council meeting.

12.3

Any decision of Clubs and Societies Council may be appealed to the next meeting of Union Council by any five members of Clubs and Societies Council. In this instance the Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development shall furnish Union Council with the reasons for the decision in question. The decision of Union Council shall be final.

12.4

Membership of Clubs and Societies Council shall consist of:

12.4.1 The Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development (Chair).

12.4.2 The President of every recognised Club and Society or their nominee.

12.5

Members may only represent one club or society.

12.6

Clubs and Societies Council shall normally meet on six occasions per year, with at least three meetings per semester.

12.7

An Emergency Clubs and Societies Council shall be called by the Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development on the receipt of a written request from onethird of Clubs and Societies Council Members.

12.8

Quorum shall consist of 50% + 1 of those entitled to attend and vote.

12.9

There shall be the following standing committees of Clubs and Societies Council.

12.9.1 Clubs and Societies League Committee.

12.9.2 Awards Committee.

12.9.3 Capitation Advisory Committee.

12.10 Clubs and Societies Council shall have as many policy making sub-committees as it deems necessary to conduct its business.

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Article 13 – The Board of Trustees 13.1

There shall be a Board of Trustees to defend the long term interests of the Union and hold the Union’s commercial services in trust.

13.2

The Board of Trustees shall be responsible for the overall policy of the running and financial management of the Union’s commercial services, and shall make all decisions in relation to staffing, procurement and tendering for professional services on the Union’s behalf, including but not limited to legal, I.T., accountancy and consultancy services.

13.2.1 The Board of Trustees shall devolve responsibility, within a specified framework, for the day-to-day running and financial management of the Students’ Union Club, Shops and other services to the Club Management Committee, Shop Management Committee and Catering Management Committees of the Union.

13.3

The Board of Trustees is ultimately responsible to the Students’ Union in respect of all matters which come under its control.

13.4

The membership of the Board of Trustees shall be as follows:

13.4.1 The President of the Union (Chairperson).

13.4.2 The immediate outgoing President of the Union.

13.4.3 Three other past Presidents or Vice-Presidents of the Union who are no longer ordinary members of the Union.

13.4.4 Three external members, who shall not have been members of the Union in the previous five years and who have demonstrated considerable commercial expertise and administrative skills.

13.4.5 The Administrative Manager of the Union, who shall act as a non-voting secretary to the Board.

13.5

The external members of the Board shall be appointed by the Executive Committee for a term of three years. In the event of the expiry of their contracts these trustees shall be obliged to resign their position on the Board of Trustees.

13.6

The Board shall meet at not more than eight-weekly intervals.

13.7

The Administrative Manager of the Union shall report on the state of the Union’s finances and commercial services to each meeting of the board.

13.8

The Board is empowered to create a company limited by guarantee to supervise the commercial activities of the Union, and to act as its board of directors, subject to the following precondition.

13.8.1 Any company created by the board shall remain entirely owned by the Union, and will be responsible to the Union in respect of all matters which come under the control of the company.

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13.9

There shall be the following standing subcommittees of the Board of Trustees:

13.9.1 13.9.2 13.9.3 13.9.4 13.9.5

Disciplinary Committee Elections & Appeals Committee Club Management Committee Shop Management Committee Catering Management Committee

13.10

The standing subcommittees shall be bound by the provisions of Schedule 6 of this constitution.

13.11

The Board shall not discriminate between the President and Vice President on terms of remuneration for the duration of their employment by the Union.

13.12

The Board may also create any other subcommittees it deems necessary and which do not conflict with the non-political nature of the Board.

13.13

The Board shall not become involved in Union policy that does not concern the commercial services of the Union, and in the event of a conflict, the decision of Union Council shall be final.

Article 14 – Elections and Resignations 14.1

Only ordinary members of the Union shall be entitled to vote in Union elections.

14.2

All elections shall take place under the direction of the Returning officer and his / her staff as instructed by the Elections & Appeals Committee of the Board of Trustees.

14.3

Class Representative Elections shall take place before the first meeting of Union Council.

14.3.1 Where there is only one candidate for the position of Class Representative in a constituency that person shall be deemed elected.

14.3.2 Constituencies for Class Representatives shall be determined annually by Constitutional and Representative Review Committee.

14.4

Sabbatical Officers, Irish Language and Cultural Affairs Officer and Faculty Representatives on the Executive shall be elected within 30 days of the commencement of the second semester.

14.5

The First Year Representative and Postgraduate Representative shall be elected within twenty days of the commencement of the first semester.

14.6

Elections for the Executive shall be conducted by Proportional Representation by means of a Single Transferable Vote.

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14.6.1 For these elections the option ‘RON – Re-open Nominations’ shall be included. This shall appear last on the ballot paper regardless of alphabetical order.

14.6.2 If the option ‘RON – Re-open Nominations’ is deemed elected, the Returning Officer shall declare the seat unfilled and shall organise another election at the earliest appropriate date.

14.7

Elections for Class Representatives shall be by means of a show of hands.

14.8

Candidates for Executive elections must be proposed by any sixty members who sign an official nomination form to that effect.

14.9

No person shall put themselves forward for election that is unable to fulfil the portfolio for which they present themselves.

14.10

Any Class Representative or Officer of the Union who wishes to resign shall do so by putting in the hands of the Returning Officer a letter to that effect, giving ten days notice.

14.10.1 The Returning Officer shall in turn notify the President of the Union.

14.10.2 The resigning officer shall still be responsible for their duties during the period of notice.

14.10.3 In the case of a Class Representative resigning, a by-election shall be held in their constituency prior to the next meeting of Union Council.

14.10.4 In the case of a non-sabbatical officer of the Union resigning, Union Council shall have the power to co-opt one of their number to fill the role, subject to the provisions of article 10 above.

14.10.5 In the case of a Vice-President of the Union resigning, a by-election shall be held within fifteen days. Should the resignation occur within eight weeks of the end of the term of office of the officer, the Executive may co-opt a member of Union Council to fill the vacancy if they deem it necessary.

14.10.6 In the case of the President of the Union resigning, a by-election shall be held within fifteen days. Should the resignation occur within eight weeks of the end of the term of office of the President, the vacancy shall be filled according to the order of succession.

14.11

A Class Representative shall be obliged to resign upon receipt of a petition by the Returning Officer for his / her removal signed by no less than one-third of his / her constituents.

14.12

Executive Officers of the Union shall be removed from office immediately subject to the provisions of article 11 above.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Article 15 – Policy 15.1

Decisions of the Executive shall remain as policy until revoked.

15.2

Union Council decisions shall remain as policy for a period of three years, unless the same motion is revoked by a subsequent Union Council, Union General Meeting or Referendum.

15.3

A quorate referendum shall mandate the Union to a particular policy for a period of three years, unless revoked or renewed by a subsequent referendum on the same topic referring to the first referendum.

15.4

The Union may affiliate to, or disaffiliate from, national organisations whose aims and objectives are not repugnant to those of the Union.

15.5

The Union may not affiliate to any political party.

Article 16 – Interpretation and Amendment of the Constitution 16.1

The first interpreter of the Constitution shall be the President of the Union.

16.2

Any interpretation made by the President may be appealed to the Elections & Appeals Committee of the Board of Trustees.

16.3

The Elections & Appeals Committee shall be the final tribunal of appeal within the Union and the final interpreter of the Constitution.

16.4

The Articles of the Constitution may only be amended by a referendum called in accordance with this document.

16.5

Any changes to the Articles of the Constitution shall require a simple majority in a quorate referendum and shall come into effect at 11.59 pm on the day the referendum is passed.

16.6

Any changes to the Schedules of the Constitution may be made by a two-thirds majority of a validly called and quorate meeting of Union Council.

16.7

The Official Copy of the Constitution shall be kept by the President of the Union, and all amendments to it shall be recorded including the time and date of their enactment.

16.8

Where a conflict occurs between a Schedule and an Article of the Constitution, the Articles of the Constitution shall take precedence.

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16.9

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

This constitution may be replaced in its entirety by means of referendum in accordance with the provisions of article 6 above.

Article 17 – Revocation and Enactment 17.1

All previous constitutions are hereby revoked.

17.2

This constitution comes into effect at 11.59 pm on the day the Returning Officer deems it to have passed.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Schedules of the Constitution

Schedule 1 – Standing Orders of Union Meetings

1.1

The agenda for meetings of the Union shall be as follows:

1.1.1

Adoption of the Agenda

1.1.2

Adoption of Minutes of the Previous meeting

1.1.3

Matters Arising

1.1.4

Correspondence

1.1.5

Items for Agreement

1.1.6

Items for Discussion

1.1.7

Items for Information

1.1.8

Any Other Urgent Business

1.2

Items not dealt with during a meeting shall lapse unless re-submitted.

1.3

Meetings shall be conducted in accordance with the following:

1.3.1

Speakers shall address themselves to the Chairperson.

1.3.2

Persons wishing to speak shall make themselves known to the Chairperson who shall call on them in turn.

1.3.3

When speaking, the Chairperson shall be heard in silence.

1.3.4

If deemed expedient the Chairperson may impose a time-limit on debate of not less than ten minutes.

1.3.5

The Chairperson may call the attention of the meeting to continued irrelevance or tedious repetition on the part of a member and may, after reasonable warning, require such a person to cease speaking.

1.3.6

In cases of a dispute on procedure, the ruling of the Chairperson is final.

1.3.7

Before a vote is taken on a motion, it must be formulated by the proposer, seconder and recorded by the Secretary.

1.3.8

The proposer of any motion or amendment automatically has the right to speak and the right to reply to any debate immediately before the vote is taken. Such a reply shall contain no new information.

1.3.9

Speaking rights shall be confined to members of the house, unless granted to observers by a majority vote.

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1.3.10 Decisions on amendments must be made before decisions on the motion to which the amendment refers.

1.3.11 Only one motion or amendment may be before the house at any one time.

1.3.12 Amendments to a motion shall be relevant to the motion and shall not negate it directly.

1.3.13 If an amendment is carried or accepted, the amended motion shall become the substantive motion to which further amendments may be moved.

1.3.14 If there appears to be consensus, the chair may rule a motion carried. This decision may be appealed, whereupon a vote shall be taken.

1.4

The following procedural motions may be moved by any member of the house. No procedural motion may be moved in respect of another procedural motion.

1.4.1

That the question now be put.

1.4.2

That the question not be put.

1.4.3

That the matter be referred back to a later meeting of the present or any other competent body for consideration and report back to the present body.

1.4.4

That the matter be referred back to another Union body for decision.

1.4.5

That the meeting, or part thereof, be held in camera.

1.4.6

That the Chairperson’s ruling is partial.

1.4.6.1

This motion, if passed, shall require the Chairperson to vacate the chair for the remainder of the meeting.

1.5

Points of Order and Information may be raised subject to the following conditions.

1.5.1

Points of order may be raised by any member of the house and this shall take precedence over any other business.

1.5.1.1 1.5.2

1.5.2.1

1.5.3

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Points of order must relate to the conduct of the meeting.

Points of information may be raised by any member on the acceptance of the member currently speaking.

Points of information shall contain either a concise piece of information or a request for clarification, relevant to the matter at hand.

Points of order and information shall be made by the speaker in no longer than thirty seconds.

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

1.6

Voting shall be conducted at meetings by either a show of hands or a secret ballot.

1.6.1

The manner of the vote shall be at the discretion of the Chairperson.

1.6.2

The Chairperson may appoint tellers if he / she wishes who shall temporarily suspend their right to vote on the matter in hand.

1.6.3

Each member shall have one vote unless explicitly stated elsewhere in the Constitution.

Schedule 2 – Elections 2.1

Election procedure shall be decided in the first instance by the Elections Committee of the Board of Trustees, pursuant to the following.

2.2

Notice of elections shall be given at least twenty days prior to the opening of polls.

2.3

Nominations shall be open for the first ten of these days, during which time no canvassing shall take place.

2.4

Nominations shall close at 12 noon on the tenth day of notice.

2.4.1

Nominations shall be put in the hands of the Returning Officer or their designated agent.

2.5

A full list of nominations received shall be published and displayed publicly by 5pm on the day following the close of nominations.

2.6

The results of the election shall be published and displayed publicly by 5pm on the day following the count.

2.7

Instructions to voters, as decided by the Elections & Appeals Committee shall be displayed clearly at all polling stations at every election.

2.8

The Elections Committee shall meet within five days of the declaration of the results to ratify them and discuss any matters arising from the conduct of the election.

2.9

Any person who has a reason to believe that there was any irregularity of any kind regarding the conduct of an election shall have the right to put in the hands of the Returning Officer or their designated agent a written letter of complaint which shall contain all the details relevant to the complaint and the contact information of one person willing to speak in support of the complaint.

2.9.1

This complaint shall be lodged within a three day period from the declaration of the results of the election.

2.9.2

On receipt of a complaint the Returning Officer shall present it to the Chairperson of the Elections & Appeals Committee, who shall add the complaint to the agenda of the meeting of the committee described at 2.8 above.

2.9.3

The Elections & Appeals Committee shall have the right to summon the person detailed in the complaint and any other person to assist in their ruling.

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2.9.4

The ruling of the Elections & Appeals Committee may be further appealed to the Board of Trustees, whose decision shall be final.

2.10

The provisions of this schedule shall apply equally to Elections and Referenda.

Schedule 3 – Standing Committees of Union Council

3.1

The Campaigns, Welfare & Equality Committee shall discuss issues related to the welfare and equality concerns of members of the Union, so as to be in a position to advise Union Council on policy where necessary and shall discuss issues relating to the planning, execution and review of Union campaigns.

3.1.1

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

3.1.1.1 3.1.1.2 3.1.1.3 3.1.1.4 3.1.1.5 3.1.1.6 3.1.1.7 3.1.1.8 3.1.1.9 3.1.1.10

Vice President for Welfare and Equality (Chairperson).

First Year Representative.

Postgraduate Representative.

One mature student.

One student registered with the disability office.

One international student.

One student who identifies as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender.

One student parent.

One access student.

Any one other student, not representative of the above.

3.1.2

The committee shall meet and report back to Union Council at least once per semester.

3.2

The Education Committee shall discuss issues related to academic policy, so as to be in a position to advise Union Council where necessary.

3.2.1

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

3.2.1.1 3.2.1.2 3.2.1.3 3.2.1.4 3.2.1.5 3.2.1.6 3.2.1.7 3.2.1.8 3.2.1.9 3.2.1.10

President of the Union (Chairperson).

First Year Representative.

Postgraduate Representative.

Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy Representative.

Social Science Representative.

Science and Engineering Representative.

Theology Representative.

One student from the Kilkenny Campus.

One student from Froebel College of Education.

Any one other student.

3.2.2

The committee shall meet and report back to Union Council at least once per semester.

3.3

The Entertainments Committee shall discuss issues relating to Entertainment for members of the Union.

3.3.1

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

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3.3.1.1 3.3.1.2 3.3.1.3

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Vice President for Services, Events and Communications (Chair).

Two other members of the Executive.

Five members of the Union elected by Union Council.

3.3.2

The committee shall meet and report back to Union Council at least twice per semester.

3.4

The Constitutional and Representative Review Committee shall examine the constitution so as to be in a position to advise Union Council of the need for any changes it deems necessary, and to review and develop the representative structures of the Union.

3.4.1

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

3.4.1.1 3.4.1.2 3.4.1.3 3.4.1.4 3.4.1.5 3.4.1.6

President of the Union (chair).

Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development.

Two other members of the Executive.

One past officer of the Union.

One past Chairperson of Union Council.

Three members of the Union elected by Union Council.

3.4.2

The committee shall meet and report back to Union Council at least once per semester.

3.5

Any elections to the standing committees shall be conducted at the first meeting of Union Council in any academic year.

3.6

Union Council may create additional committees at its discretion, the membership of which shall not exceed ten persons.

Schedule 4 – Definitions 4.1

“Day” shall mean any day during term time on which the University is open and operational.

4.2

“The Union” shall mean Maynooth Students’ Union.

4.3

“The University” shall mean the National University of Ireland Maynooth, Saint Patrick’s College Maynooth, the Pontifical University, the National Seminary of Ireland and all their affiliated and associated campuses throughout the country.

4.4

“Student” shall mean any person pursuing a course of study in the University.

4.5

“Member” shall refer to any person in respect of whom a capitation fee has been paid or as defined in Article 3.

Schedule 5 – Transitory Provisions

5.1

All policy of the Union which is policy immediately before the commencement of this constitution shall continue to be in effect until or unless:

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Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

5.1.1

It expires in accordance with its terms or the terms of the previous constitution of the Union.

5.1.2

It is deemed to be repugnant to this constitution.

5.2

The officers of the Executive Committee shall continue in office until the expiry of their term.

5.3

Union Council and Clubs and Societies Council shall be reconstituted in accordance with this constitution but members of Union Council and Clubs and Societies Council shall continue in office until the expiry of their term.

5.4

The candidate elected Vice President / Education and Welfare Officer at the executive elections of March 2011 shall assume the position of Vice President for Welfare and Equality as of the first of July, 2011.

5.5

The candidate elected Vice President / Communications and Development Officer at the executive elections of March 2011 shall assume the position of Vice President for Services, Events and Communications as of the first of July, 2011.

5.6

There shall take place a by-election to fill the vacant post of Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development within twenty days of the enactment of this constitution.

5.7

The candidate elected St. Patrick’s College and Pontifical University Representative at the executive elections of March 2011 shall assume the position of Theology Representative as of the first of July, 2011.

5.8

Union Council may decide to hold by-elections to fill the vacant posts of Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy Representative, Science and Engineering Representative, and Social Sciences Representative at the same date as the by-election outlined in Schedule 5.6 above.

5.9

The candidate elected Entertainments Officer at the executive elections of March 2011 shall assist the Vice President for Services, Events and Communications in the organisation of Union entertainments.

5.9.1

The Entertainments Officer’s term of Office shall expire on the 30th of June 2012, at which time the office will lapse.

5.10

The candidate elected Finance Officer at the executive elections of March 2011 shall assist the President in the supervision and maintenance of the Union’s finances, and shall assist the Vice President for Services, Events and Communications in supervising the quality of pricing and service of the Union’s commercial activities.

5.10.1 The Finance Officer’s term of Office shall expire on the 30th of June, 2012, at which time the office will lapse.

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Schedule 6 – Standing Committees of the Board of Trustees 6.1

The Standing Committees of the Board of Trustees shall report after every meeting to the Board by sending its minutes for approval, this provision shall not inhibit the standing committees from performing their stated aims.

6.2

The Disciplinary Committee shall investigate charges of ill-discipline against any officer of the Union subject to the provisions of Article 11 of the Constitution.

6.2.1

Membership of the Committee shall be as follows

6.2.1.1 6.2.1.2

The immediate outgoing President of the Union (Chair).

One other past President or Vice-President of the Union who is no longer a ordinary member of the Union.

One member from the external panel of the Board of Trustees.

One member of Union Council.

One person, not a member of the Union, with significant experience in Human Resources and personnel management to be appointed by the Board of Trustees.

6.2.1.3 6.2.1.4 6.2.1.5

6.3

The Elections and Appeals Committee shall supervise the conduct of all elections within the Union, and shall rule on all appeals which come to its attention pursuant to Article 4.1.6 of the Constitution.

6.3.1

The Elections and Appeals Committee shall meet on at least four occasions per year.

6.3.2

The Elections and Appeals Committee shall appoint and supervise the Returning Officer and Deputy Returning Officer and ensure the smooth running of Elections subject to the provisions of Article 14 of the Constitution.

6.3.2.1

The Returning Officer and Deputy Returning Officer shall:

6.3.2.1.1 6.3.2.1.2 6.3.2.1.3 6.3.2.1.4 6.3.2.1.5 6.3.2.1.6

Be appointed from the membership of the Union.

Hold a term of office of one year, from the first of July to the thirtieth of June.

Hold no office in the Union or the Board of Trustees.

Express no opinions on the state of the Union in a personal or official capacity.

Supervise and execute all elections and referenda during his / her term of office.

Appoint assistant returning officers as deemed necessary for the conduct of elections and referenda.

6.3.3 6.3.3.1 6.3.3.2 6.3.3.3 6.3.3.4 6.3.3.5

6.3.4

6.3.4.1 6.3.4.2

Membership of the Committee shall be as follows: President (chair).

Immediate outgoing President of the Union.

One member from the external panel of the Board of Trustees.

Chairperson of Union Council.

One person, not a member of the Union, with significant experience in election procedure to be appointed by the Board of Trustees.

Appeals may be made to the Elections and Appeals Committee in accordance with the following protocol: Any member of the Union may appeal a constitutional matter to the President for consideration first, and then appeal that decision to the committee.

Appeals under any other grounds may be submitted to the committee by putting in the hands of the President in writing the case in question.

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6.3.4.3 6.3.4.4 6.3.4.5

6.3.5

6.3.5.1

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

The committee shall meet and rule on any such appeal within five days of the appeal’s receipt by the President.

Any member of the Union may appeal an election or referendum matter to the committee within three days of the results being declared by the Returning Officer.

No election or referendum result shall be deemed final until ratified by the committee, no more than five days after the results have been declared by the Returning Officer.

Any member of the committee who is a candidate in any election of the Union shall step down from the committee for the duration of the election campaign and its immediate aftermath.

The board of trustees may appoint another person to fill this vacancy if it is deemed necessary.

6.4

The Club Management committee shall ensure the smooth running of the Students’ Union Club.

6.4.1

The committee shall meet at least once per term and report back to the Board of Trustees.

6.4.2

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

6.4.2.1 6.4.2.2 6.4.2.3 6.4.2.4 6.4.2.5 6.4.2.6

Vice President for Services, Events and Communications (Chair).

Administrative Manager of the Union (Secretary).

President of the Union.

One other member of the Executive Committee.

One other member of the Board of Trustees.

Bar Manager.

6.5

The Shop Management committee shall ensure the smooth running of the Students’ Union shops.

6.5.1

The committee shall meet at least once per term and report back to the Board of Trustees.

6.5.2

Membership of the Committee shall consist of:

6.5.2.1 6.5.2.2 6.5.2.3 6.5.2.4 6.5.2.5 6.5.2.6

Vice President for Services, Events and Communications (Chair).

Administrative Manager of the Union (Secretary).

President of the Union.

One other member of the Executive Committee.

One other member of the Board of Trustees.

Shop Manager.

6.6

The Catering Management committee shall ensure the smooth running of catering services provided by the Union.

6.6.1

The committee shall meet at least once per term and report back to the Board of Trustees.

6.6.2

Membership of the Committee shall consist of:

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6.6.2.1 6.6.2.2 6.6.2.3 6.6.2.4 6.6.2.5 6.6.2.6

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Vice President for Services, Events and Communications (Chair).

Administrative Manager of the Union (Secretary).

President of the Union.

One other member of the Executive Committee.

One other member of the Board of Trustees.

Catering Manager.

6.7

The standing committees of the Board of Trustees shall be bound by the following provisions.

6.7.1

Quorum for any of the committees shall be 50% + 1 of those entitled to attend and vote.

6.7.2

Decisions shall be made by consensus in the first instance, but where necessary may be made by a simple majority vote of a quorate meeting.

Schedule 7 – The Capitation Committee 7.1

There shall be a capitation committee which shall oversee the distribution of all monies received from the University to the Union.

7.2

Membership of the committee shall consist of:

7.2.1 7.2.2 7.2.3 7.2.4 7.2.5 7.2.6 7.2.7 7.2.8 7.2.9

President.

Vice President for Services, Events and Communications.

Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development.

Vice President for Welfare and Equality.

Student Activities Officer (NUI Maynooth).

Sports Officer (NUI Maynooth).

Bursar, or nominee (NUI Maynooth).

One member of Academic Staff (Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth).

One member of Academic Staff (NUI Maynooth).

7.3

The committee shall meet at least twice per year and shall report to the Board of Trustees and NUI Maynooth Student Affairs Committee.

7.3.1

All clubs and societies shall be subject to guidelines, rules and regulations set down by the Capitation Committee.

7.4

The committee shall have the following standing sub-committees:

7.4.1

Recognition and Ratification Committee.

7.4.2

Clubs and Societies Capitation Committee.

7.5

The Recognition and Ratification Committee shall consider the recognition and ratification of clubs and societies of the Union, subject to the approval of the NUI Maynooth Student Affairs Committee.

7.5.1

The committee shall consist of:

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7.5.1.1 7.5.1.2 7.5.1.3 7.5.1.4 7.5.1.5

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

President.

Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development.

Two Members of Clubs and Societies Council (as described in schedule 8 below).

Student Activities Officer (NUI Maynooth).

Sports Officer (NUI Maynooth).

7.5.2

The committee shall meet at least once per term and report back to Clubs and Societies Council.

7.5.3

The committee shall make and uphold such bylaws as it deems necessary to oversee both new and existing clubs and societies.

7.6

The Clubs and Societies Capitation Committee shall distribute finance among the clubs and societies of the Union and supervise the day-to-day running of the clubs and societies.

Membership of the Committee shall consist of: President.

Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development.

Four Members of Clubs and Societies Council (as described in schedule 8 below).

Student Activities Officer (NUI Maynooth).

Sports Officer (NUI Maynooth).

7.6.1 7.6.1.1 7.6.1.2 7.6.1.3 7.6.1.4 7.6.1.5 7.6.2

The committee shall meet weekly during term-time and shall decide upon applications made to the Clubs and Societies Capitation funds for finance and special cases.

7.6.3

The committee shall be subject to the bylaws set out by both the Recognition and Ratification Committee and Clubs and Societies Council.

Schedule 8 – Standing Committees of Clubs and Societies Council 8.1

The Clubs and Societies League Committee shall maintain and develop a clubs and societies league, monitoring the day-to-day performance of Clubs and Societies of the Union, and allocate points awarded.

8.1.1

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

8.1.1.1 8.1.1.2 8.1.1.3

Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Developments (chair).

Four Presidents of Societies, elected by Clubs and Societies Council.

Four Presidents of Clubs, elected by Clubs and Societies Council.

8.1.2

The committee shall meet fortnightly during term time and shall submit an annual report to the awards committee.

8.2

The Awards Committee shall meet once per year and act as judges for clubs and societies awards, to be distributed at the annual Clubs and Societies Ball.

8.2.1

Membership of the committee shall be as follows:

8.2.1.1 8.2.1.2 8.2.1.3 8.2.1.4

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Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development (chair).

President of the Union.

Student Activities Officer (NUI Maynooth).

Sports Officer (NUI Maynooth).

Bunreacht Aontas na Mac Léinn Má Nuad

8.2.1.5 8.2.1.6

Constitution of Maynooth Students’ Union

Two Presidents of Societies, elected by Clubs and Societies Council.

Two Presidents of Clubs, elected by Clubs and Societies Council.

8.3

The Capitation Advisory Committee shall be a forum for the Clubs and Societies representatives to the Recognition and Ratification Committee and the Clubs and Societies Capitation Committee.

8.3.1

Members of the Capitation Advisory Committee shall be as follows:

8.3.1.1 8.3.1.2

Vice President for Clubs, Societies and Union Development (chair).

Six Presidents of Clubs or Societies as elected by Union Council.

8.3.2

The Six Presidents shall between them fill the seats on the Clubs and Societies Capitation Committee and the Recognition and Ratification Committee, ensuring that at least one club and at least one society is represented at both.

8.4

The Committee shall meet on at least four occasions per year and shall report back to Clubs and Societies Council after each meeting.

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