Belfield Campus Update: A message from the President, 31 May 2024

Posted 31 May, 2024

This is a message to all UCD students and employees.

I am writing to inform you that after more than two weeks of ongoing engagement and direct dialogue with the Students’ Union and others, and despite meaningful engagement on both sides, unfortunately we have come to an impasse on any final agreement to end their encampment on campus.

While we have made significant progress in discussions, there remains a gap that could not be bridged.

However, it is worth noting that over the course of the dialogue we had identified significant steps towards an agreement. 

These included enhancements to our University of Sanctuary programme and our existing Scholars at Risk programme that would see more Palestinian students and scholars welcomed to our campus. We had also indicated our desire to seek new institutional partnerships with Palestinian universities.

We also proposed establishing a working group, including student representation, to develop a policy on ethical investment for approval by the Governing Authority.

It is deeply disappointing to the university that these elements, among several others, were not sufficient for a final agreement with the Students’ Union to end the encampment. 

We have seen a worrying change in the tone and types of behaviour from those within the encampment and this is increasing anxiety across our campus community.

The university has continually reminded the Students’ Union that their protests must be peaceful and in line with university policies. And we are monitoring the behaviour and actions of those in the encampment and will continue to prioritise the safety and welfare of all on our campus. 

We are adapting to a rapidly changing internal and external environment and I will keep you informed as developments occur. 

Finally, I want to sincerely acknowledge the outrage felt across our university community at the terrible level of death and destruction in Palestine and in the October 7 attacks on Israel.

As a member of the global university community with an enduring commitment to academic freedom, expression and safety, UCD is always appalled by the destruction of universities and university communities, as we have seen in Gaza.

As stated in my previous emails, it remains my hope that even through these very difficult times UCD can continue to be a place that supports open and constructive debate in an environment of inclusivity and respect.

Le gach dea-ghuí,

Orla

Professor Orla Feely
President