The student union at Trinity College in Dublin is facing a fine of 214,000 euros for recent protests against the Israeli military offensive in Gaza. These 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, calling it 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.
Former TCDSU president Lynn Ruane criticizes the university’s response as intimidation, stating that protest is a constitutional right and a fundamental part of democracy. In solidarity with Gaza, the TCDSU has started a camping trip to demand the severing of ties with Trinity College in alignment with boycott, divestment, and sanctions principles. The university management has given a deadline for the fine to be paid and warns of potential sanctions such as exam bans, loss of accommodation, or expulsion for specific individuals involved in the protests.
