In 2016/2017, the Graduates Students’ Union (GSU) increased its income by almost 27 per cent, running a small profit for the year.
In her report to GSU council this evening, GSU Treasurer Pia Helbing said the accounts were in good condition.
The union’s expenses increased by 12 per cent, but the report states that the union is now in a “healthy” position.
The change in income, according to the report, was generated by targeting “external commercial opportunities”, a strategy that has reaped rewards for Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union (TCDSU) in recent years.
The main increase in expenditure over the last year was due to higher spending on union events, with a €26,814 rise in costs.
The accounts still need to be presented to the Capitations Committee over the next few weeks. The union also received €30,000 from the Global Relations Office, with which it works throughout the year to cater to the issues of international postgraduate students.
The salaries of the two GSU sabbatical officers, which are funded by the union, decreased by €5,640 because of a one-time payment which settled costs of accommodation expenses for 2013/14 and 2014/15.
The union has faced increases in bank charges, with the report noting that the union is decreasing the payments with cheques and is increasing payments through bank transfer.
As part of a change in strategy, the union cut the budget for publication by €3,310. The GSU produces two publications: The Trinity Postgraduate Review and College Green the arts and humanities journal.
Shane Collins is currently serving his second year as president of the GSU.
