Trinity College in Dublin recently imposed a fine of 214,000 euros on the university’s students’ union for their 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, which represents 20 percent of the union’s annual budget and will impact the services they provide. The Senate’s statement highlights the dangerous precedent set by the fine and criticizes the lack of consideration for student well-being.
Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, Trinity College states they have caused significant economic damage due to the closure of the exhibition. The university claims that they have a responsibility to protect
