Policies and Motions

Elected Council members can vote on motions that are put forward during Council. If you are a student and you want to make a policy change, get in touch with your Class Rep or College Officer and they can bring forward an amendment on your behalf. If there is a particular area of focus that you think the SU or an individual officer should be working on then you can ask your class rep or another Council member to bring forward a motion for debate. This is often how the campaigns that make the most impact begin!

The Policy Book contains the current set of policies and mandates that Union Council has voted in favour of. The Council Standing Orders are the rules by which the Council operates.

Policies and Mandates FAQ

    • A general statement of principles, values, opinions or beliefs. Should outline the ‘why’ and provide necessary background and context.

    • Its’ purpose is to identify problems, the union’s relation to the problem and guide decision-making towards rectifying the problem.

    Example: “The Union believes that affordable food options should be provided for students.”

    This policy is broad and allows for flexibility in how it is implemented. For example, the union might decide to offer a food bank, lobby for a discount program at local restaurants, or run a cafeteria that sells meals at a subsidised price.

    • A specific instruction or requirement. Contains timelines and designates responsibilities. Should outline the ‘when’ and the ‘who’.

    • It’s purpose is to ensure that decisions are made in accordance with the Council’s wishes.

    Example: “(Council mandates) That the Welfare Officer work to increase the number of affordable food options for students by 20% by the end of the 2023/24 academic year.“

    This mandate is more specific and binding, and it requires the Union to take specific actions to achieve the desired outcome.

    1. You must be a member of Union Council to submit a motion yourself. If you aren’t, you can approach your class rep and ask them to submit a motion on your and your class’ behalf.

    2. Write your motion. If you need some guidance, you can use this motion template HERE and check the policy book for previous motions.

    3. Get someone to second your motion.

    4. Email councilchair@ucdsu.ie the Monday before Council with your motion document.