Trinity College Dublin fines students’ union €214k over protests

The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript which is more than 1,200 years old. It is regarded as one of the greatest treasures of Celtic art.

The book has been in the hands of TCD since the 17th century and now attracts more than half a million tourists a year, external with admission starting from €19 (£16).

In a statement, TCD said it is a not-for-profit organisation that “cannot survive solely on government funding and depends on other sources of income”.

The student blockades have had “a negative financial impact”, according to the university.

“The income generated from the Book of Kells is vital to keep the university going and it supports initiatives such as student services, the student hardship fund etc,” a TCD spokesperson said.

The college added it “supports students’ right to protest within the rules of the university”.