staff handbook - university of limerick

S ta f f H a n d b o o k

S ta f f H a n d b o o k Pa g e 1

It is only a guide and does not represent official University policy. It may be necessary to use other documents, websites and publications for more current information.

Other sources of information are listed below:

The University’s Human Resources Policies and Procedures and Relocation information are available to staff and may be downloaded from the Human Resources website at: http://www2.ul.ie/hr

Other relevant Corporate Policies are available on the Corporate Secretary webpage: http://www2.ul.ie/web/WWW/Administration/Vice_President_Administration_%26_Secretary/Acting_Secretary

Information and up to date news is also available from The Corporate Affairs web site at: http://www.ul.ie/news-centre/

The University of Limerick Campus Directory is available from: http://www.ul.ie/staff-search

Academic Information such as term dates, calendars, academic records, registration and conferring information is also available from: http://www2.ul.ie/web/www/services/ academic_calendar

Information regarding the University Leadership and more is available from: http://www.ul.ie/about-ul/university-leadership/

Information on Public services and entitlements in Ireland is available from: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/

In this handbook you will find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions for new employees of the University of Limerick. The information has been obtained and copied from various internal sources i.e. Faculties or Departments websites and from external sources, i.e. Government websites.

I n t r o d u c t I o n

Pa g e 2 S ta f f H a n d b o o k

Our aim is to make your time here at UL as rewarding and fulfilling as possible. This section of the handbook will help you to find the information you need to get started. In addition to using the handbook, we strongly encourage you to attend one of our induction days at the earliest opportunity.

Your departmental staff and our Human Resources staff are here to help you. Please call on any of us to assist you.

We look forward to working with you, and wish you every success with your work at the University of Limerick.

Mr Tommy Foy Director, Human Resources Division

To new employees, I extend a very warm welcome to you as you commence work at the University of Limerick. We aim to set a high standard and achieve ambitious goals. We continue to see ourselves as an enterprising and innovative University and each and every person who works at UL contributes to this goal.

d I r e c t o r o f H u m a n r e S o u r c e SW e l c o m e


The city boasts some fascinating historic sights, fashionable bars, charming old pubs, glossy shops, smart restaurants and boutique hotels.

Limerick is Ireland’s third largest city which dates back to the 9th century. Its castles, ancient walls and museums are testament to its dramatic past. There is certainly plenty of history to absorb in this fine riverside city from the 13th Century King John’s Castle and the Treaty Stone, to the Hunt Museum which houses over 2,000 works of art including pieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Renoir and Picasso. The city is also home to the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the University Concert Hall.

In Limerick, sport is a matter of pride and passion. Limerick is the home of Munster Rugby, hence the city is widely acknowledged as Ireland’s unofficial “rugby capital”. The new Thomond Park stadium is the jewel in the rugby crown of the city. The Limerick footballers and hurlers draw huge crowds to

the Gaelic Grounds, and there are several rowing clubs based here. Limerick racecourse hosts various meetings throughout the year. In October 2010 the new and modern greyhound stadium opened it’s doors. In the summer of 2010, the city hosted the Special Olympics Ireland games which were hugely successful. Limerick is a progressive and thriving city, and an attractive location for students, with over 20,000 young people choosing third level study in Limerick. The innate friendliness of the people will remain an abiding memory for all who come to live and study “where the Shannon River meets the Sea”. Please see the following link for more information on Limerick & the Mid-West

Limerick City: www.limerick.ie

Limerick Communications Office: www.limerickcommunicationsoffice.ie

Discover Ireland: www.discoverireland.ie/shannon

Limerick is a riverside city where the Shannon is an integral part of the city’s character. Vibrant Limerick combines big city amenities with an innate friendliness—a mix that guarantees an attractive and welcoming environment for staff and students alike.

l I m e r I c k & t H e m I d W e S t


Overview Of the University Of Limerick The University of Limerick is an independent, internationally focussed University with over 11,500 students and 1,400 staff. It is a young, energetic and enterprising University with a proud record of innovation in education and excellence in research and scholarship. The University’s mission is to promote and advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research and scholarship in an environment which encourages innovation and upholds the principles of free enquiry and expression. Particular attention is paid to the generation of knowledge which is relevant to the needs of Ireland’s continuing socio-economic development.

The University of Limerick offers a range of programmes up to doctoral and postdoctoral levels in the disciplines of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Business, Education and Health Sciences, Science and Engineering.

The University is situated on a superb riverside campus of over 133 hectares with the River Shannon as a unifying focal point. Outstanding recreational, cultural and sporting facilities further enhance this exceptional learning and working environment. The University of Limerick campus is located 5km from Limerick City and 20km from Shannon International Airport.

Adjacent to the University is the National Technology Park (NTP), Ireland’s first Science/ Technology park (263 hectares), which is home to over 80 organisations employing over 4,000 people. There is a close interaction between UL and the National Technology Park.

Established in 1972 as the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick and classified as the University of Limerick in 1989, UL is one of Ireland’s foremost centres of academic excellence. This section will cover the University’s constitution, authorities, structures and finance.

a b o u t t H e u n I v e r S I t y


The National Technology Park has been designed to meet the needs of high-technology and knowledge-based businesses by providing low density development in a high quality parkland environment. The Park provides a range of flexible business infrastructure and accommodation options for eligible activities.

University GOvernance Overall authority for the affairs of the University is vested in the Governing Authority (GA) of UL, a 34-member board that is appointed for five years in line with the Universities Act, 1997. The current GA was appointed in 2007.

GA membership includes senior University officers, elected representatives of staff, students and graduates, representatives of the wider community (industry, business, the professions, arts, cultural and community interests), and nominees of local and national government.

University manaGement Overall management of the University’s affairs is the responsibility of the Executive Committee of the University.

The academic affairs of the University are managed by the Faculty Boards, the Academic Programme Review Committee, and the Academic Council.

The University has adopted a Strategic Plan for its future development. This plan is the foundation upon which strategic priorities are formulated and implemented. The University reviews this plan at regular intervals. Please see Plan at http://www2.ul.ie/pdf/521283169.pdf


academic strUctUre Of the UniversityThe academic structure of the University of Limerick is as follow:

facULties• Kemmy Business School• Faculty of Science & Engineering• Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences• Faculty of Education & Health Sciences

kemmy BUsiness schOOL • Accounting & Finance• Economics• Management & Marketing• Personnel & Employment Relations

facULty Of science & enGineerinG• Architecture • Chemical & Environmental Science• Civil Engineering & Materials Science• Computer Science & Information Systems• Design & Manufacturing Technology• Electronic & Computer Engineering

• Life Sciences• Mathematics & Statistics• Mechanical, Aeronautical and

Biomedical Engineering• Physics & Energy

facULty Of arts, hUmanities & sOciaL sciences • History • Irish World Academy of Music & Dance• Languages, Literature, Culture &

Communications• Law• Politics & Public Administration• Sociology

facULty Of edUcatiOn & heaLth sciences• Education & Professional Studies• Graduate Entry Medical School• Nursing & Midwifery• Occupational Therapy• Physical Education & Sport Sciences• Physiotherapy• Psychology• Speech & Language


University Of Limerick administrative OrGanisatiOnaL chart

President

Executive CommitteeManagement Council

GoverningAuthority

Director Quality

Manager International

Education

DirectorLifelong

Learning & Outreach

Associate Registrar

Director Cooperative Education &

Careers

Director Information Technology

Division

DirectorStudentAffairs

AssociateVP

Academic

Director Research Support Services

Director Technology

TransferOffice

DirectorLibrary &

Information Services

Director Campus Life

Services

DirectorSport &

Recreation

DeanFaculty of Arts,

Humanities and Social Sciences

Vice President

Academic & Registrar

DeanFaculty of Business

VicePresident Research

DeanFaculty of Education & Health Sciences

DirectorFinance

DeanFaculty of Science &

Engineering

DirectorHuman

Resources

DeanGraduateSchool

Director Buildings &

Estates

Corporate Secretary

Director Corporate

Affairs


University Of Limerick academic OrGanisatiOnaL chart

Academic Council

President

GoverningAuthority

Law

Languages, Literature, Culture &

Communication

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

History

Irish World Academy

of Music & Dance

Associate Vice President

Academic

Vice President Academic &

Registrar

Associate Registrar

Politics & Public

Administration

Management & Marketing

Economics

Accounting & Finance

Faculty of Business

Personal & Employment

Relations

Sociology

Physical Education & Sport

Sciences

Nursing & Midwifery

Psychology

Mechanical, Aeronautical & Biomedical Engineering

Physics & Energy

Physiotherapy

Occupational Therapy

Education & Professional

StudiesMedicine

Faculty of Education & Health

Sciences

Life Sciences

Computer Science & Info

Systems

Design & Manufacturing

Technology

Electronic & Computer Engineering

ArchitectureChemical &

Environmental Science

Faculty of Science & Engineering

Speech & Language Therapy

Civil Engineering &

Materials

Mathematics & Statistics


hUman resOUrces cOntactshr directOr’s Office

tommy foy director, Human resources d1-010 + 353 61 233202 [email protected]

yvonne coughlan Pa to director, Human resources d1-010 + 353 61 202013 [email protected]

hr manaGer’s Office

michael kelly manager, Human resources d1-042a + 353 61 202033 [email protected]

valerie nolan Pa to manager, Human resources d1-010 + 353 61 202011 [email protected]

GeneraL QUeries

yvonne coughlan Pa to director, Human resources d1-010 + 353 61 202013 [email protected]

valerie nolan Pa to manager, Human resources d1-010 + 353 61 202011 [email protected]

recrUitment

avril Hogan Hr officer, recruitment cm-054 + 353 61 202014 [email protected]

dympna Healy Hr officer, recruitment cm-052 + 353 61 202389 [email protected]

deirdre murphy administration e1-009 + 353 61 202462 [email protected]

mahon kennedy administration e1-009 + 353 61 234609 [email protected]

grace clohessy administration e1-009 + 353 61 213155 [email protected]

research

caroline neylon Hr officer, research d1-047 + 353 61 213733 [email protected]

charlotte long administration d1-047 + 353 61 202193 [email protected]

PensiOns

keith mckeague Hr officer, Pensions cI-069 + 353 61 222008 [email protected]

tom kennedy administration cI-069 + 353 61 202930 [email protected]

Pa g e 1 0 S ta f f H a n d b o o k

cOmPensatiOn & Benefits

ellen keegan Hr officer, compensation & benefits d1-042 + 353 61 234344 [email protected]

Jennifer connolly administration d1-042 + 353 61 213132 [email protected]

vivienne Hinchy administration d1-042 + 353 61 233658 [email protected]

bridget donnelly administration d1-042 + 353 61 202463 [email protected]

LearninG, deveLOPment & eQUaL OPPOrtUnities

alison o’reganlearning, development & equal

opportunities managerd1-047 + 353 61 213074 [email protected]

Jennifer yeung administration d1-047 + 353 61 234347 [email protected]

shared services

marie connolly Shared Services transition manager d1-043 + 353 61 233720 [email protected]

festa

clare o’Hagan research fellow, feSta c1-070 + 363 61 234623 [email protected]

hris

edel Quinn Systems administrator gl0-036 + 353 61 213124 [email protected]

Paddy ryan administration c3-006 + 353 61 234883 [email protected]

emPLOyee reLatiOns & eQUaLity

Pat rockett Hr officer, employee relations & equality e1-008 + 353 61 213574 [email protected]

andrew rock administration e1-009 + 353 61 202461 [email protected]

heaLth & safety

Philip thornton Health & Safety officer d1-054 + 353 61 202239 [email protected]

grainne o’carroll Health & Safety technical officer d1-054 + 353 61 202074 [email protected]

PLease nOte OUr administrative Office OPeninG hOUrs are: Monday-Friday 09h00-17h00 (Lunch 13h00 -14h15) Identification Cards are processed Monday -Friday between 15h00 -16h00 The main HR Office is located in the main building on the first floor in Room D1-042.

S ta f f H a n d b o o k Pa g e 1 1

This document is an aid to help you to settle into your new working environment in the University. Please review this checklist with your Manager.

fOr new emPLOyee PriOr tO arrivaL: • Sign and Return Contract of

Employment and submit requested documentation to HR

• Complete Work Authorisation application (if required)

• Obtain entry visa (if required) (www.justice.ie)

• Remain in contact with future Manager to organise commencement details

• Review HR website for information on relocation for new employees

On arrivaL: Please note that new employees should meet with a member of their department on arrival.

• You must present yourself to the main HR office (D1 042) on your first day (to ensure registration for payroll, for ID card and information on the below)

• Submit P45 to Salaries and Bank details, PPS Number, Original Certificates to HR

• Obtain PPS number if required

• Submit REG 1form to Revenue Commissioners if required

• Open bank account if required

• Obtain ID Card from HR

• Obtain parking permit if required from Buildings & Estates

• Obtain access to buildings, library borrowings etc

• Sign up to Induction day through HR

n e W e m P l o y e e S e t- u P c H e c k l I S t


new staff indUctiOn Human Resources runs a one-day formal induction training programme for new staff appointments to the University in October and regular induction workshops throughout the academic year. The programme provides new staff with the opportunity to understand the University structure, governance and strategy. It is also an opportunity to meet new colleagues, Human Resources staff, Heads of Departments and Senior Management within the University.

The Human Resources Research office offers induction workshops for new researchers.

indUctiOn cOOrdinatOrAn Induction Coordinator has primary responsibility within their department/division of assisting and coordinating the local induction of staff members.

A local induction should be conducted for each new staff member so that the new appointee can familiarise him/herself with their role

and responsibilities, their place within the department/division, their colleagues, and the practical details when starting a new position, i.e. office/desk space, location of photocopier, etc.

fOrm P45 When commencing employment in the University, please submit your Form P45 from your last employment to the Salaries department. When you leave your employment, your employer must give you a Form P45. Your P45 shows your pay, tax and PRSI deductions from the start of the tax year to the day you leave your employment.

PersOnaL PUBLic service nUmBer (PPs) If you have not been previously employed in Ireland or if you have been in temporary unemployment, you will need to obtain a personal public service number. This is your unique reference number for all your dealings with the Public Service, including Social Welfare, tax, education and health services. The

c o m m e n c I n g e m P l o y m e n t I n t H e u n I v e r S I t y o f l I m e r I c k

As a new staff member of the University of Limerick, you may have some questions. This section hopes to provide answers to many of the frequently asked questions.


University of Limerick requires this number to make payments to you. You may already have a PPS number, if you are an Irish National.

If you do not hold a PPS number, you must register with the Department of Social Protection by: • Calling in person to a Department of Social

Protection local office. The local Social Welfare office in Limerick is based in Dominic Street, Limerick City. The contact number is 061 212200.

• Completing a PPS Number application REG 1 (available from the Department of Social Protection) and

• Presenting documentary evidence as requested in the application form to verify your identity e.g. long version of birth certificate, current passport or your driving licence, evidence of an address in Ireland (HR can provide a letter if you are unable to provide evidence of address).

• Non-Irish Nationals will be required to provide their ‘green card’. You will be notified of your PPS Number by the issue of a Social Services Card.

hOstinG aGreements To assist with the recruitment of researchers, the EU issued the COUNCIL DIRECTIVE 2005/71/EC, third country nationals for the purposes of scientific research. The University of Limerick is an accredited research organisation and as such can form agreements with third country nationals (non-EEA nationals) for the purpose of conducting research within the University.

For further information on the Council Directive, please see www.deti.ie/science/technology/accreditation.htm

The hosting agreement replaces the need for researchers and the University applying for annual work permits as the agreement is valid for the duration of the employment contract. The hosting agreement has the same benefits as the Green Card, for example, immediate family reunification and application for residency after two years.

HR will advise you if you require a Hosting Agreement.

wOrk Permits The employment of candidates from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) requires that the University satisfy the work permit conditions established by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Innovation. The EEA comprises of the members of the European Union, in addition to: Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein. Please note: Swiss Nationals do not require Work Permits to work in Ireland. The Human Resources Division at the University of Limerick obtains work permits for people who have successfully obtained employment in the University.

Information regarding work permit requirements may be found on the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Innovation website at: www.djei.ie

HR will advise you if you require a work permit.


Please note: upon arrival in Limerick all employees in possession of either a work permit or hosting agreement must register with the Gárda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) at the below address:

Immigration Office, Garda Station Henry Street, Limerick. Tel: 061–212488

A GNIB card costs €150 per person and must be renewed annually. The Immigration office will only accept debit/credit card or bank giro and NOT cash. Each family member over 16 years and on a hosting agreement must register in person with the GNIB

Please note that it is the responsibility of the employee to familiarise themselves with their immigration requirements and keep their visa and stamps up to date

PersOnneL nUmBerA personnel number is your unique identifying number for access to University services. You will be allocated one when your contract of employment is confirmed and you have submitted all personal details (i.e. PPS number, bank details etc) to the Human Resources Division.

Therefore it is essential that you submit all details as soon as possible, as otherwise your access to services may be delayed. You may contact the HR Division to obtain your personnel number.

staff identificatiOn cardIt is the policy of the University to issue all staff with identification cards. University identification cards contain the employee’s name, picture, and staff number.

Staff identification cards are issued to all permanent and contract employees of the University, who have been issued contracts of employment by Human Resources. Where an employee is employed on a contract basis, the staff identification card shall include an expiry date.

OBtaininG a ParkinG Permit It is the responsibility of the vehicle driver to ensure a valid permit is displayed at all times when parking in staff car parks. Car parking permits are provided by Buildings & Estates, please contact:

Ms Cliona Donnellan Building & Estates AM-056 Monday -Wednesday between 12h00 and 13h00

Employees must have a valid staff ID to obtain the permit.


OPeninG a Bank accOUnt Required information:• Two forms of ID (valid passport/ birth

certificate / current drivers licence) • Proof of address (current utility bill) or

letter from HR

saLary Payment Salaries are usually paid on the 25th day of every month.

tax UL Employers PAYE Registered No–0032116A

In order to deduct the correct tax from your salary, you will need to apply for a Certificate of Tax Credits (Form 12A)

Please go to www.revenue.ie to download the Form 12A. Please complete this form and send to: The office of the Revenue Commissioners River House, Charlotte Quay Limerick. (061) 212700

The Form 12A should be submitted as soon as possible to minimise the risk of ‘emergency tax’ at 42%. Emergency tax is applied in cases where your tax credits are unclear. If emergency tax is initially applied, the appropriate reimbursements will be made to you as soon as your tax situation is clarified.

Benefits This section outlines some of the benefits accruing to you as a staff member with UL:

hOLiday entitLements Generous holiday leave entitlements accrue to staff at UL. Those specifically relating to you are listed in your contract of employment. Please refer to our website for further information www.ul.ie/hr

PensiOn Membership of this scheme is mandatory. The pensions website provides information on the University of Limerick Pension Schemes, together with details on Life Cover and other Group Schemes. The pensions team ensures that all staff who are members of the University of Limerick’s Pension Schemes have accurate records of reckonable service and keeps all staff members well informed about all pension-related matters. Should you have a specific query which is not answered on the website please email [email protected]

saLary PrOtectiOnPlease note that membership to this scheme is compulsory. The University of Limerick’s Income Continuance Plan provides financial security to members in event of long-term absence from work due to long-term illness. Members of the plan will receive a gross income of 75% of their predisability salary, should they suffer from a long-term illness. Deductions are made directly from salary and attract full tax relief. Further information is available by contacting [email protected]


additiOnaL Life cOver The University of Limerick’s Group Additional Life cover scheme is designed to ease financial burdens at a difficult time, by providing important extra benefits to a member’s dependent in the unfortunate event of his/her death. To join or for further information please contact [email protected]

heaLthcare insUrance The University of Limerick provides information on health insurance schemes for the following Health Insurance Providers: • Aviva (www.avivahealth.ie) • VHI (www.vhi.ie) • Laya Healthcare (www.layahealthcare.ie)• Hospital Saturday Funds—HSF

(www.hsf.eu.com)

Further information is available at www.ul.ie/hr

reLOcatiOn infOrmatiOn The University of Limerick may provide financial assistance to new permanent and temporary appointees to assist in their relocation from areas outside of Limerick in order to take up employment. The payment of relocation expenses under this policy is at the discretion of the relevant Dean / Director HR • Relocation Expenses Policy • Relocation Information

Further information is available at: www.ul.ie/hr

emPLOyee assistance PrOGramme The University of Limerick has an Employee Assistance Programme in place. The aim of this service is to assist and support employees in dealing with personal issues that could pose a threat to their health, well-being, relationships or employment. The Employee Assistance Programme is a confidential counselling and advice service.

It is provided by an external company called EAP Consultants. This is an independent service. The University will not be informed as to who is using the service. The free phone helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1800 201 346.


UL traveL Pass scheme The University’s Travel Pass Scheme is a facility whereby employees can purchase an annual bus or rail ticket through the University. The cost of the ticket is deducted from employees’ salary at source over a 12 month period, which allows employees to save up to 48% of travel costs through tax and PRSI benefits.


UL cycLe tO wOrk scheme In accordance with the Government initiative which encourages more employees to cycle to work, the University provides a facility whereby


employees can purchase a bicycle and/or safety equipment for employees to use to travel to and from work. The cost is deducted from employees’ salary at source over a 12 month period, which allows employees to benefit from tax and PRSI relief.

UL procedures, conditions and relevant forms can be found at www.ul.ie/hr

traininG OPPOrtUnities/ staff deveLOPment The key aims of the Learning, Development & Equal Opportunities section are: • To ensure that the employees of the University

have the skills and knowledge they require to contribute effectively to the key Strategic Goals of the University.

• To support managers in identifying individual staff development needs through the Performance Development Review System process

• To support individual employees to develop the skills and knowledge associated with their job roles

• To support individuals in developing their careers within the University

• To make the most of the development opportunities open to them.

fUrther stUdy It is the policy of the University to encourage the personal development of its employees. This is particularly so when it involves the pursuit of

programmes of study which are relevant to the appointment they hold.

With this view in mind, the University is prepared to financially support employees who undertake courses of study at undergraduate, postgraduate or continuing education levels. Please refer to the policies and procedures page on our website for further information. www.ul.ie/hr

diGnity and resPect The University of Limerick is committed to the development and the maintenance of a positive working environment, in which all employees are treated with dignity & respect. In pursuit of this, it is the policy of the University to provide all employees with an environment, which is free from bullying, harassment or victimisation of any form.

All employees are requested to attend a Dignity and Respect Workshop. You can find details of our Dignity and Respect policy and workshop dates, times and venues on our website: www.ul.ie/hr

PrOBatiOn POLicy The first 12 months of any new job can be challenging and it is critical that the new employee gains a clear understanding of and expectations around the job role during this


time. To facilitate this process, a probationary period of 12 months applies to all new permanent and contract positions. If probation has been satisfactorily completed at the end of the 12 month period, the appointment is confirmed. The legal entitlements of employees will not be affected by the application of the policy.

The purpose of the probationary period is to: • Provide the University with an opportunity to

establish the employee’s suitability for the role.

• Provide the new employee with an opportunity to fully discuss and understand the role and to receive feedback on his/her performance.

heaLth & safetyThe University of Limerick, in accordance with current safety legislation, in particular the Safety Health & Welfare at Work Act 2005, is required to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare while at work of all University employees, students and that of visitors to the campus.

It is important that safety precautions are observed by everyone. The prevention of accidents in the workplace is the responsibility of every individual, be it office, laboratory, library, store, workshop or cafeteria. It is only when each person takes responsibility for his/her own area of responsibility

that safety will be managed effectively.

Ensuring the safety of others at work is equally as important as the avoidance of personal injury. Safety precautions are in place, not only for the prevention of accidents, but also for the reduction of injury in the event of an accident.

The University Safety Statement and the “Health & Safety Essentials” booklet provides a framework for the organisation of safety throughout the University. It contains guidelines for those personnel delegated safety duties who will, by their actions and encouragement to others, ensure that the University continues to be a safe place in which to work.

The Safety Statement and Health & Safety Essentials booklet is available on www.ul.ie/hr

chiLd PrOtectiOnThe University of Limerick wishes to ensure that it maintains the highest possible standards to meet its responsibility to protect and safeguard those children for whom it has responsibility. The University’s policy on Child Protection has been developed incorporating guidelines and recommendations in the following publications: “Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post-Primary Schools (2011), “Children First – National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011)” and “Our Duty to Care” (2002). The University is committed to promoting the rights of the child including the


participation of children and young people in matters that affect them.

The main purpose of this Policy is to promote good practice by providing children and young people with the appropriate safety and protection while visiting or involved with the University. The Policy also informs University staff working with children of the child protection measures which are in place to ensure that reasonable care is exercised in dealing with them.

The Child Protection Policy applies to all staff, students, volunteers and persons who encounter children in the context of classes, tuition or service at UL or on other premises.

The Child Protection Policy and Guidelines document is available on www.ul.ie/hr

PerfOrmance deveLOPment review system (Pdrs) The University of Limerick is committed to the Performance and Development Review System (PDRS) to ensure the alignment of team and individual objectives with the University’s strategic priorities. The overall focus of the system is on improving performance and enhancing professional/career development.

Workshops are provided for Managers/Supervisors who are responsible for conducting 1– 1 review meetings with direct reports.

New members of staff are required to attend a 2 hour workshop (PDRS Reviewee) which will introduce you to the system as it operates in UL.

Further information can be located in our Staff Learning & Development section of our HR website www.ul.ie/hr

academic wOrkLOad aLLOcatiOn POLicy This policy was produced by a joint working group and establishes the basic principles for fair, equitable and balanced distribution of work amongst academic staff.

It provides Heads of Department and Deans with a framework within which models for workload planning will be developed and operated.

Whilst there is a clear expectation that all academic staff will make a full contribution to the goals of the University, Faculties and Departments, this policy does not seek to alter the relative flexibility of working time of academic staff. It is also important to consider this flexibility in relation to maintaining an appropriate worklife balance.

Further information can be located in our Policies & Procedures on our website www.ul.ie/hr


restaUrants incLUde: red raisin café (Starbucks, Subway and Pizza Pronto) - located in the Main University Building, Red Raisin is the home of Subway, Starbucks and Pizza Pronto. Sandwiches and confectionary are also available throughout the day.

millstream restaurant - offers both a la carte and set menu options and is ideal for special occasions and parties of up to 90 people. A bistro menu is available for lunch while private evening gatherings are also catered for.

eden University main restaurant - Eden is the University’s main self-service restaurant. Located in the Main Building, Eden offers daily specials, sandwiches made to order and a live action station where fresh produce is prepared before your eyes.

Plaza café, Glucksman Library - located in the Glucksman Library Building, the Plaza Café offers coffee and snacks. Hot food and homemade sandwiches are available throughout the day.

café allegro, Foundation Building - located in the University Concert Hall (Foundation Building), Café Allegro is a comfortable and relaxed venue offering a selection of salads, soups, coffee and confectionary.

café @roma, Computer Science Building - speciality coffees, hot chocolate, hot dishes of the day, salads and hot and cold sandwiches.

cube café - is located in Kemmy Business School and offers a variety of seasonal hot dishes and made to order sandwiches. Java City Coffee is served while a large selection of confectionary items are also available.

P l a c e S t o e at o n c a m P u S

The University offers a wide choice of restaurants, which include large self-service restaurants offering high quality home cooked food at budget conscious prices, a variety of small restaurants, stylish cafes and bar / restaurants which serve food late into the evening.


café verde - is located in the Health Sciences Building serving a variety of soups, salads, ice cream, smoothies and sandwiches.

Paddock restaurant - located in the Student Centre, the Paddock Restaurant provides self-service breakfast and lunch. While a variety of hot dishes are available throughout the day, sandwiches and rolls are made to order.

Blas café (café noir) - located in the Irish World Academy, Blas Café is operated by Café Noir, a group of French inspired coffee houses. Serving patisserie, artisan breads, breakfasts and hot lunch daily.

University club - located in the beautiful surroundings of Plassey House, the University Club offers fine dining in an intimate setting. Contact ext 2186 for reservations.

Bars/restaUrants the stables club - offers food and beverages all day. Located in the Student Centre, the Club also offers night time entertainment for students.

University arena sports club - located adjacent to the University Arena, the Sports Club bar is an ideal place to relax after a visit to the gym. Hot food and beverages are offered throughout the day.

the scholars’ club - provides food and beverages in a relaxed and intimate environment. The Club serves carvery every day and can cater for parties of up to 80 people.

the Pavilion - is a new dedicated events space which incorporates The Veranda, capable of hosting national and international events. The Veranda is a stunning 6,000sq foot space that is part covered by glass which can cater for up to 1,000 guests, while The Pavilion itself has a large bar overlooking the new multipurpose sports grounds. The Pavilion is Limericks newest and most spectacular multi purpose venue which caters for events, conferences, private functions & weddings.


BankBanking on campus is facilitated by Ulster Bank. They offer staff banking, Bureau de Change and ATM facilities around the campus. The branch can be found in the Student Centre. Opening hours are 10h00 - 16h00 Monday to Friday. Contact telephone number: 061 216260

BOOkshOPO’Mahony’s Booksellers stock all academic course titles, novels, stationery, newspapers and magazines. Contact telephone number: 061 202048

fOOdstOreThe Students’ Union run a SPAR supermarket providing a range of foods, breads, confectionery, sandwiches and hot snacks.

LaUnderetteThe launderette is operated by Kilross Laundry Company. The launderette provides same day wash and dry service along with dry cleaning at great prices. Open 09h00 - 17h00 Monday to Friday.

snaP PrintinGSnap Printing can cater for all design, print and copy requirements such as brochures, booklets, flyers, posters and binding. Open 08h30 - 17h30 Monday to Friday. Contact telephone number: 061 338290

crécheSilver Apples Créche. A number of places are available to staff with families each year.

S H o P P I n g / o t H e r S e r v I c e S o n c a m P u S

The Student Centre offers a variety of essential retail services on a daily basis. It is designed to be the social hub on campus.


what tO dO On camPUs exPLOre what OUr camPUs has tO Offer The University has an active and thriving cultural life. This is reflected by its policy to develop and support the arts through its own activities or in house support of resident groups.

University cOncert haLL The UCH is Ireland’s first purpose built concert hall. Seating over 1000 people, UCH hosts a variety of events including grand opera, dance, comedy, drama and rock/pop concerts.

University arena The University of Limerick plays a unique role in sport. The University Arena is a multipurpose sports facility housing Ireland’s first 50m Olympic swimming pool.

take a visUaL arts tOUr The University is home to the National Self Portrait collection and the Watercolour Society of Ireland. Located mainly in the Foundation Building and Plassey House, these collections can be viewed during office hours.

exPLOre the camPUs Take a relaxing walk/cycle around our beautiful campus which nestles on the banks of the river Shannon. Stroll over the spectacular Living Bridge and enjoy the river views and natural habitat.

UL farmers market Visit the UL Farmers’ Market -The Farmers’ Market is held every Tuesday at 12:00 in the Student Union Courtyard. This weekly market brings local food producers into the centre of the University campus and boasts a wide variety of stalls, including organic fruit and vegetables, fresh chutney etc. It is hugely popular with staff and students alike.


The University of Limerick is the centre for sporting excellence in Ireland, used by the Irish international rugby squad, Munster rugby squad, Bath and Wasps rugby squads, Irish boxing squad and European women’s basketball teams. Training camps are now expanding into national residential competitions as a result of increased campus accommodation.

new nOrth camPUs deveLOPment: This is an exciting time on campus with the new ‘Field of Dreams’. This is a fantastic new development of four 3rd generation synthetic pitches, 2 Soccer, 1 GAA and 1 Rugby. They are all full size and all floodlit to accommodate all-year-round training, together with the Sports Pavilion it is the biggest such facility in Europe.

Other University of Limerick facilities include: • 400m Olympic standard Track • 50m Olympic size Swimming pool • Indoor Sports Hall • Cardio Fitness Centre • Floodlit Astroturf all weather pitch • Climbing Wall • 30 acres of playing fields including floodlit

training fields • The Boathouse is home to a first indoor

Rowing Tank in Ireland

www.universityarena.com

UL activity centre The UL Activity Centre is located only 16 kilometres from campus, on Lough Derg at Killaloe. It is one of the leading water sports facilities in the country, with an extensive fleet of sailing dinghies, top class wind-surfing equipment and a vast array of canoes and kayaks. For further information see www.ulac.ie

S P o rt S

Limerick enjoyed the prestige of being awarded the title of European City of Sport in 2011

www.ul.ie/hr

S ta f f H a n d b o o k

staff handbook - university of limerick

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