College Tribune | September 30th 2008
News
The root of all evil? n Humble custard creams and digestives blamed for UCD financial woes n Over-use of water coolers also targeted on cutback hitlist A memo sent to the top brass of UCD listing ways in which to cut costs has demanded all staff slash their “extravagant” supply of tea and biscuits. The document, entitled “Value for Money and Cost Reduction measures” requests that the “provision of tea, coffee and biscuits should be discouraged and reduced” and goes on to say hospitality costs should not be in any way excessive. This excess apparently extends to the water dispensers, the cost of which “should be reviewed”. Furthermore, it is suggested that perhaps and where possible there should be no water dispensers at all. Elsewhere in the three-page grilling, staff are advised henceforth to take the train or other public transport to get to their off-site meetings, to only print e-mails if strictly necessary and furthermore “print in mono”. A stark word of caution to academics who have made a habit of purchasing the latest in new computers was also issued in which they
■■ Jennifer Bray were told to buy only what they really need, as opposed to “ the most advanced model possible.” The purpose of the memo, sent by Bursar Gerry O’Brien and Registrar Philip Nolan, is to outline a range of cost reduction measures that will enable the university to meet its financial targets. UCD is, as the note states, “expecting a deficit of €15 million approx for the financial year ending September 30th 2008. “This deficit will further worsen in 2009 unless the University takes decisive action in managing and controlling it’s cost base” It goes on to say that due to the Department of Education demands for a 3% funding cut, UCD will need to find savings equal to 9-10% in order to “stand still”. If the university wants to reduce the overall deficit, “substantially greater savings” will be needed. The internal missive ends on a
warning note, advising all VicePresidents, College Principals and College Finance Managers to note that “Value for Money reviews are taking place and academic and support units will be reviewed from time to time to ensure they are behaving in a cost conscious manner.”
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