MSU Student Senate
Your Voice, Your Platform, Your Power
Get Involved with the Student Senate!
The Student Senate is the heart of student decision-making at Maynooth Students' Union (MSU). It’s where important policies are debated, decisions are made, and student voices are heard. Whether you're passionate about improving student life or want to advocate for real change on campus, the Student Senate is your platform!
Why Should You Care About the Student Senate?
- Student Power: The Senate is the governing body of the Union, meaning it’s the primary space where students influence how the Union operates. It oversees the work of the MSU Executive and ensures that the Union remains accountable to students.
- Shaping Union Policy: The Senate has the power to issue and approve policies, guide the Union’s Plan of Work, and advise on the MSU Strategic Plan.
- Inclusivity: All students are welcome to attend meetings, and those elected to the Senate have a real vote in shaping decisions that affect every aspect of student life.
Who Makes Up the Student Senate?
The Senate is made up of elected representatives from across the student body, including:
- Executive Panel: This panel includes both Full-Time and Part-Time Executive Officers. They bring expertise in everything from student life to academic affairs, guiding the Senate with their experience and commitment to student representation.
- Postgraduate Panel: Postgrad students, this is your space! Taught and Research postgraduate members sit on this panel to ensure that the unique perspectives of postgraduate students are always represented.
- Faculty Assemblies Panel: Representing the academic heart of MSU, this panel consists of Academic Representatives from each faculty, including Arts & Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science & Engineering. They work to address academic issues and advocate for students within their faculties.
- Interest Group Panel: This panel is all about inclusion! Students elected to represent key interest groups ensure that MSU supports everyone. From Ethnic Diversity and Gender Equality to LGBTQ+ students and representatives from St. Patrick’s Pontifical University, this panel brings vital voices to the Senate.
- Independent Panel: Four elected members without a specific portfolio, known as the Independent Panel, bring unique perspectives and fresh ideas to Senate discussions. They’re free to advocate on any issue that matters to students!
How Does It Work?
- Meeting Schedule: The Senate meets six times per academic year to discuss important issues and vote on policies.
- Transparency: All minutes, reports, and policies are published on the MSU website, ensuring transparency for the student body.
- Committees: The Senate forms committees focused on areas such as constitutional review and equality, allowing for deep dives into critical issues.
Get Involved!
Whether you want to run for a Senate position or attend a meeting to voice your opinions, the Student Senate is your opportunity to make a real impact. Shape the future of MSU and represent your fellow students by getting involved!
Elections are held in October (2024) and March (2025) – don't miss your chance!
Be the change – join the conversation at the MSU Student Senate!