Trinity College in Dublin has imposed a fine of 214,000 euros 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, 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 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, they also warn that potential sanctions such as exam bans, loss of accommodation, or expulsion for specific individuals involved in the protests may be enforced if the fine is not paid by their deadline.