Trinity attempting to set dangerous precedent with students
- Trinity is joining forces with a global movement to stifle dissent on campuses
Labour’s Further and Higher education Spokesperson Senator Annie Hoey has expressed shock and outrage at Trinity College Dublin punishing their Students’ Union with a €214k fine in response to student protests.
Senator Hoey said:
“The decision by Trinity College Dublin to punish the Students’ Union with €214k fine is outrageous, unfair and sets a worrying precedent.
“There is a long and proud history of student protest in this country and this fine seems like a way to silence and stifle protest. Student protest has been the front of educational issues and wider political issues.
“The Students’ Union in Trinity have been vocal on a plethora of issues including the College increasing the price of student accommodation last year and the College proposals to increase Master’s fees.
“They have also been consistently protesting against Trinity College’s financial ties with Israeli companies.
“During her election campaign, Provost Linda Doyle promised to prevent any increases in master fees.
“Three years later, the agenda for a Finance Committee Meeting of Trinity College had the raising of master’s fees as an item for discussion.
“It is right for the students of Trinity College, and all students, to protest this and other decisions of the college.
“One week ago, Provost Linda Doyle said ‘I want Trinity to be a place where everybody can express the opinion they have, where they can express it passionately.’
“Furthermore, individual student leaders have been facing disciplinary meetings with College management and this is another way that the college is attempting to stifle protest.
“This punishment is unfair, heavy handed and a way of silencing student protest.
“The students united will never be defeated. Ní neart go cur le chéile.”