Governance

Terms of Reference of the University of Galway LGBTQ+ Staff Network

Purpose and Aims

• To protect and promote the interests of LGBTQ+ staff.
• To create a safe and inclusive environment for staff of all sexual identities and genders.
• To facilitate social and professional networking for LGBTQ+ staff.
• To advocate for and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues.
• To contribute to a culture of inclusivity, equality and diversity both locally and nationally.

Objectives

• Liaise and collaborate with University administration to ensure all policies and practices are inclusive of LGBTQ+ people.
• Provide social and professional networking opportunities for University of Galway LGBTQ+ staff.
• Identify training opportunities for University of Galway staff on LGBTQ+ issues.
• Provide informal peer support for LGBTQ+ staff.
• Collaborate with other networks and allies in University of Galway, nationally, and internationally.
• Increase the visibility of LGBTQ+ staff on campus.
• Encourage research, teaching, and cultural activities related to LGBTQ+ issues.
• Serve as a link between the University and local, national, and international LGBTQ+ community organisations.

Organisation and Governance

Membership of the University of Galway LGBTQ+ Staff Network is open to all NUI Galway Staff members with an interest in the purpose and aims of the Network.  On-site contractors are also invited to join as Associate Members.

An annual general meeting (AGM) will be held in the first semester of each academic year, to which all members of the Network will be invited, and at which all necessary governance procedures will take place.

The Network will appoint an Executive Committee (of up to ten members) to steer the programme and activities of the network. Expressions of Interest will be sought from Network members in advance of the AGM. Network members will vote and elect Executive Committee members at the AGM.

The Executive Committee can appoint a further two co-opted members to address key issues or imbalances in representation should they arise.

Executive Committee members will hold their position for a maximum of 3 years from the date of their appointment. Any Executive member may step-down at any given point from their role.

The Executive Committee will be convened by Co-Chairpersons (2), who will normally share the duties of Chairperson. The Co-Chairpersons will be selected from within the Committee by said Committee. Co-Chairpersons will hold their position for one full year from the date of appointment and may step down at any given point from their role.

The Executive Committee will meet at least four times per year to look after the general interests of the Network and plan networking opportunities and events. A quorum of half+1 Committee members will be required for decisions. All Executive Committee members have equal voting rights.

The Terms of Reference of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network may be revised as needed by the Executive Committee and approved by membership at the AGM.

Interaction with the University

• Approval of the Network’s terms of reference by the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Campus Committee.
• The Network will be consulted by University of Galway to provide input to relevant policy considerations.
• The Chairperson of the Network will attend the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Campus Committee meetings to represent the Network’s interests and provide updates on its activities.
• Advisory and financial support from the Office of the Vice-President for Equality & Diversity, and collaboration with other University services (e.g. Human Resources) on an ongoing basis as requested.
• The Network will be recognised in University processes (e.g. staff induction) alongside other similar staff supports, where appropriate.