Memorial University says it has no problem with students protesting on campus – but it does not allow such activity when it results in ’round-the-clock occupation of a building.

Charges laid against three MUN students following pro-Palestinian protests on their St. John’s campus have been dropped. The three women were arrested following demonstrations that began outside and later moved inside the Arts and Administration Building last year. MUN contests their interpretation that protests are not allowed on campus.

MUN says it called police when three students refused to leave the Arts and Admin Building after closing hours. That was when RNC laid the charge of trespassing. The institution adds that the lawyer for the students was informed that they could not continue living in a building or camping on grounds meant meant for work and study.

MUN adds that it fully supports the rights of students to protest on campus, and that they did so from May 21st and through the summer.

But it draws the line during the after-hours for reasons of health, safety and security, and the privacy of materials in labs, offices and classrooms.