Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union (TCDSU) did not endorse candidates for the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) elections this evening, after the union’s final council of the year descended into a state of disorder and TCDSU lost quorum.
Traditionally, TCDSU has mandated its delegates to USI Congress to vote for designated candidates after votes at council. Now, TCDSU delegates will have a free vote.
The issue was raised after an initial motion to postpone a vote on TCDSU’s endorsements ahead of USI Congress until after discussions local issues were complete. It was raised by TCDSU Communications Officer-elect Paraic McLean. The loss of quorum means that no votes could occur, leaving candidates for USI elections to give their speeches, without any votes.
One student for every 1,000 is represented at USI Congress – this means that Trinity sends 18 students. TCDSU’s delegation at congress is one of the biggest, and so without the delegation mandated, the election outcome is more unpredictable.
Many USI candidates came to council this evening. The candidates have been travelling around the country to appeal to different students’ unions’ for their votes.
Damien McClean, the current Welfare Officer of TCDSU and USI Vice-President for Welfare candidate was due to take questions about his run for office. His manifesto focuses on improving communication links between students’ unions around the country and government leader and bodies. Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Convenor Colm O’Halloran is also running for Vice-President for the Dublin Region.
Speaking at council this evening, McClean said: “I want to work to support you – every student who comes into my office.” He promised to take his experience to a national level.
The loss of quorum also leaves TCDSU council unable to vote on motions, meaning that many will not be voted on until next academic year. Other significant motions, such as the renewal of TCDSU’s opposition to student fees and a motion on the renewal of consent workshops, were not voted on.
Expressing that he was additionally nervous, because he “cares so much about” everyone in the room, McClean described his plans to work with consent, mental health, addictive behaviours and more. “I know the limitations of what I had this year and what I wish I could have had. That’s what I want to bring to USI next year”, he told those present. Despite the irregularity of proceedings, McClean delivered a strong performance.
Niamh Murtagh also outlined why she believes she is the best candidate for this position. “Education is a right, not a privilege”, she said, before praising the Take Back Trinity movement. If elected, she will “bring students the best campaigns possible to meet their needs”, she promised. Running a campaign based on knowledge and experience, she promised to “keep the pressure on” in order to make sure student needs are met.
Rachel Sherlock of University College Cork differentiated herself from her opponents by highlighting the emphasis she hopes to place on period positivity if elected. Mentioning other manifesto points such as providing information on the importance of HIV and smear tests, and “standardising the welfare crews”, Sherlock was consistent in emphasising student health as her priority if elected to the role of Vice President for Welfare.
The loss of quorum also leaves TCDSU council unable to vote on local motions, meaning that these will not be voted on until next academic year.
