Four Refuse Honorary Degrees at University of Galway Amid Protests

BREAKING: Four prominent figures have officially refused honorary degrees from the University of Galway, intensifying tensions ahead of a scheduled protest at the conferring ceremony today. The latest refusals come as a response to the university’s ongoing ties with Israeli IT Technion, prompting significant backlash from the community.

Film-maker Margo Harkin led the charge on Monday, declaring she would not accept the honorary doctorate in light of the university’s association with Technion. Her stance follows that of fellow film-maker Lelia Doolan and the late peace activist Margaretta D’Arcy, both of whom returned their degrees in protest.

Adding to the growing list, acclaimed actress Olwen Fouéré has confirmed she will also refuse the honorary degree she was set to receive this morning. Just yesterday, Professor Kerby Miller announced at an on-campus event that he too would decline the award for similar reasons related to Technion.

The conferring ceremony is set to take place at 11:00 AM today at the Bailey Allen Hall. Attendees can expect to be met with a “guard of honour” formed by protestors voicing their dissent against the university.

This urgent development underscores the escalating conflict between academic institutions and social justice movements, reflecting deeper societal divisions over international issues. With the protest looming, the situation at the University of Galway is rapidly evolving, capturing the attention of both local and international audiences.

As the clock ticks down, all eyes are on the university’s response and the implications of these refusals on its reputation and future partnerships. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.