Trinity College in Dublin has imposed a fine of €214,000 on the university’s student union for recent protests against the Israeli military offensive in Gaza. The protests led to the closure of the Book of Kells exhibition, a popular tourist attraction at the university.
The Irish Senate’s Civil Action Group has expressed concern over the fine, stating that it is a dangerous precedent that will impact the union’s ability to provide services to students. They question the university’s lack of concern for student well-being and note the peaceful nature of the protests.
In response, Trinity College argues that the protests had a significant economic impact due to the closure of the Book of Kells exhibition, which they are obligated to protect as a national treasure. However, former TCDSU president Lynn Ruane criticizes this response as intimidation and notes that protest is a constitutional right and fundamental part of democracy.
The TCDSU has responded by starting a camping trip to demand severing ties with Trinity College in alignment with boycott, divestment, and sanctions principles. The university management has given them until December 31st to pay off their debt and threatened potential sanctions such as exam bans or expulsion for individuals involved in these protests.
