Tag Archives: USI

The new proposed loan scheme for students is overwhelmingly intimidating and will deter students from applying to college, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has claimed. College graduates could face loan repayments in the region of €25 a week over a 15-year period under major reforms to third-level funding proposed in a Government-commissioned report, according to the organisation. A draft report recommends the introduction of a new income-contingent loan system for graduates, increased maintenance grants for students from low income families and a greater contribution from both the State and employers. The findings are contained in a confidential 70-page draft report entitled Funding Irish Higher Education: A Virtuous Circle of Investment, Quality and Verification. USI said that an already broken loan system will only further fracture the structure of the Irish education system. “This would represent a real increase of €7,500 in fees for third level. It is unreasonable to think an increase in the current fee levels should be …

THE Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is to distribute 35,000 copies of its Accommodation and Finance guide ahead of the new academic term. The guide, which is launched in conjunction with the Private Residential Tenancies Board  (PRTB), gives practical advice to  third level students on securing accommodation. USI president Kevin Donoghue said, “Students will find it particularly difficult to secure accommodation in the coming weeks. This guide provides practical advice on both securing and living in accommodation when it is most needed.” The guides provide useful information for students and parents in relation to financing and budgeting for students in the coming year. USI Welfare officer Aoife Ní Shúilleabhán said, “Starting college can be stressful enough without the added difficulties of the current accommodation concerns. Our guide is designed to alleviate the pressure on students and families by providing both accommodation and financial advice.” The guide will be available online and in USI Freshers’ Bags for students coming into …

Some Clare students are facing annual rent bills of €7,500 for a shared bedroom in student accommodation in Dublin, and those are the ones who can find a place to live. Describing the situation as an “accommodation crisis”, the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has called for “urgent action” to address the housing shortage. NUI Galway confirmed to The Clare Champion that it has sent out 11,000 leaflets to homeowners in the city in an effort to expand its student accommodation portfolio. A general shortage of houses in Galway City, as well as lengthy social housing waiting lists, have compounded the issue. Clara Malone (20) from Bodyke is a third year student at NUI Galway. Despite spending weeks searching, she said “it is almost impossible” to find a house or an apartment. Clara said there seems to be an under-supply of available houses for students in Galway and despite dedicating significant time and effort she has made little progress …