Trinity closes Book of Kells exhibit due to Gaza protest

Trinity College Dublin said the Old Library and Book of Kells Experience will be closed to the public today.

In a statement it is because of a student protest on the grounds of Trinity College in opposition to the war in Gaza and the university’s links business and academic links to Israel.-

The college added that all ticket holders have been refunded and access to campus is restricted to students, staff, residents and Department of Sports Members with college ID cards only.

It said that the college supports students’ right to protest, however, it reiterated protests must be conducted within the rules of the university.

Last night, students set up an encampment near the Book of Kells, with around 15 tents pitched on the grass near the entrance to the popular tourist attraction.

The protest – which includes dozens of students and a blockade of the Book of Kells – began shortly before 9pm.

Organisers say it is inspired by similar student protests in the US.

Meanwhile, academia for Palestine at Trinity College said it fully supports the student organisations leading the encampment and shares their goal of pushing Trinity to cut ties with Israel over Gaza.

In a statement it said: “We reiterate the demands endorsed by over 430 staff and PhD students that Trinity must condemn Israel’s destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure, including educational and healthcare systems; condemn the deliberate attacks against Palestinians, including academics and healthcare workers.”