STUDENT PROTESTERS interrupted a finance meeting held by Vice-Chancellor Alan Gilbert in the Old Quadrangle last Thursday.
The Reclaim the Uni group presented demands to the University board and read out 'The Arthur Lewis Declaration', which was formulated at the occupation of the building on 22nd April.
The presentation had been planned as a follow-up to the occupation of the eponymous building and involved 22 members of the Reclaim the Uni group.
Aileen Quinn, who studies History, said: "We want to make it clear that we've not got flippant demands."
In order to avoid front-door security guards, the group managed to filter through to the meeting room via the Student Services Centre.
Alan Gilbert appeared annoyed at the unanticipated disruption. He said: "This is not a proper part of the process. This is not part of the meeting."
Philosophy student Gabriel Hassan, nineteen, replied: "Just a few demands and then we'll leave."
Security staffs were rapidly called in and announced the suspension of the meeting, advising the students to leave.
Tom Skinner, the UMSU General Secretary, was also present in the boardroom, however had nothing to do with the infiltration.
23-year-old Quinn continued to read out the demands, including a proposal that Alan Gilbert should write monthly in Student Direct.
The group requested that the Vice-Chancellor respond to their demands and meet with them at midday this Thursday, to which he replied: "You probably won't. But I understand what you're saying."
The group were quickly ushered out through the front door.
"The protest went really smoothly. We took them by surprise. But Gilbert – he was disappointing and quite dismissive," said Quinn.
The Reclaim The Uni group intend on phoning for an appointment next time to see Professor Alan Gilbert.
Comment
Have your say, tell us what you think...