National University of Ireland, Galway Students’ Union (NUIGSU) Education Officer Louis Courtney is resigning from his executive role in the union. Courtney, who is also the union’s Vice-President, is stepping down from his role “with a heavy heart” due to time constraints.
“When I ran for a position on this Union, I ran on the premise of not taking a year out of my Medical Studies,” said Courtney. “However, on reflection, I have decided that I need to prioritise my education and focus on my dream of becoming a Doctor.”
“It is my honour to have met with and discussed the problems of many students confidentially. These problems ranged hugely from financial issues, to issues with their exam results, and much more,” Courtney explained. He noted that he has already met individually with over 200 students to assist with circumstances like SUSI grants and administrative difficulties, as well as officially advocating for 95 students on their behalf on the Board of Appeals.
“For the last four months I have worked with this Union and I have seen the great work it does for the students of this college. Since the middle of June, I have worked tirelessly, in order to make the life of a studying student easier,” said Courtney. He wished other members of NUIGSU luck throughout the year.
Courtney was elected as Vice-President and Education Officer in March with 1,600 votes. He won the election on the first count.
NUIGSU announced Courtney’s resignation on social media last night, with many students writing emotional goodbyes to Courtney in the comments, who they say gave them considerable support over the summer.
Nominations for the position are set to open on September 13, with a by-election due to take place on September 27.
NUIGSU is currently involved in a case against student accommodation provider Cúirt na Cóiribe which it filed at the beginning of summer. NUIGSU filed the case against Cúirt na Coiribe in June after it increased rent rates by 18% for the new academic year. The 18% increase would result in an additional €1,000 cost for student residents.