UL Student President candidates launch campaigns, outlining key issues ahead of the March,13 election.
University of Limerick (UL) Student President candidates kicked off their campaigns for the upcoming Student President elections this afternoon, Monday, March 10. Síofra Foley, Katelyn O’Regan, and Gregory Shiel took to the courtyard this afternoon to speak to prospective voters.
Students gathered at the UL courtyard to hear what their 2025 Student Presidential candidates had to say. Speaking about what pushed her to run for Student Life president, Siofra Foley, the outgoing Student Welfare Officer said, “I want to keep my voice at the table.”
The Killarney native discussed projects such as the revamping of the student medical centre, improving the UL counselling service, and overhauling the academic progression system at the University. The Welfare Officer urged voters to “know who you are voting in and read the manifestos” in the build-up to the elections.
Katelyn O’Regan wishes to tackle the cost of living and the student experience should she be elected. “The main issues would be to end unpaid placements, improve the 310 bus route, and subsidise food and drinks on campus.”
The hopeful presidential candidate admitted that some students may be disillusioned with student politics, but said “It matters who your student president is, it matters who your representation is, and it matters what their policies are.”
Gregory Shiel feels “having a good relationship with your student president is important.” He said every candidate will be fighting for issues such as student accommodation and parking but added “It depends how you’re going to fight for them.”
The 23-year-old said “The University has done everything they can” trying to tackle these issues, and he instead wants to lobby the City Council and Government to try improving these issues.
When asked about the importance of the upcoming Student Elections, UL student Conor Foley stressed that “every vote matters”. Highlighting the issues he wants addressed by the student president, Conor said “I don’t know how long the student centre has taken to be built, and I’d like to see more services for students to make their lives easier.”
Another UL student Charlie Goldsmith said he doesn’t see the importance in the elections, saying “I haven’t really thought of them at all.”
The UL Student President elections take place on Thursday, March 13. Students can also vote for their Student Welfare Officer, Academic Officer, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Student Council Chairperson, and Faculties Officer.