Commerce & Economics Society

The society was founded by Thomas Fitzpatrick in 1913. Originally a debating society, it has evolved to become Ireland's premier student events and business society. By 1999 it had become one of the largest student societies in Europe and according to the Irish Times, it is the largest society in UCD, and universities in Ireland and Britain.[2] The society runs a plethora of events throughout the year that includes the 'Comm Ball', the university’s most sought after formal black tie ball, which changes location each year, along with a wide array of business-focused events such as leaders in industry seminars and business talks. Its position is unique as a faculty society with its members drawn from a diverse set of faculties including Arts, Engineering and Science.

Garret Fitzgerald is a former Auditor of the society.

Through the years the Society has hosted a number of guests, some of whom have been named as honorary life members of the society. These include Phil Lynott of Thin Lizzy and Spike Milligan.

The C&E is run by a committee of enrolled members, each with a specific portfolio of responsibilities.[3] The committee is chosen by the Auditor, who is elected on a annually by the enrolled membership of the Society. The Auditor is the head of the committee and responsible for the general running of the Society. Each Session begins in or around the beginning of the month of March, on the date of the annual AGM. The new Auditor for the coming year is appointed at this meeting, either as the result of an election from the enrolled membership or, in cases where a single candidate is unopposed, by nomination.

Notable auditors of the Society include many former Prime Ministers of Ireland such as Garrett Fitzgerald and Charles Haughey.[4]