Public figures sign letter to UK government in support of Sally Rooney
Sally Rooney’s books remain available in Ireland and other international markets.
Kneecap, CMAT, and Paul Mescal are among the celebrities who have signed a letter in support of Mayo novelist Sally Rooney.
Rooney's books have been withdrawn from sale across Britain due to her support for the Palestine Action activist group.
The Normal People author and native of Mayo revealed last week that her publisher, Faber, is to cease sales of her books as a result of her support for the protest group – a proscribed terrorist organisation in the UK since July last year.
In a statement, Rooney said the continued sale of her works could constitute “a serious criminal offence” after previously stating that she intended to donate royalties from her books and television adaptations to the group.
“I have made every effort to be honest with the public about my beliefs and intentions, and I am wholly prepared to accept the consequences,” Rooney said.
The letter, published in the New Statesman on Wednesday, declares: "Sally Rooney is a writer, not a terrorist. Her books must be available to the public."
It criticises the UK legislation that has led to the decision to stop supplying Rooney’s books, describing it as an affront to freedom of expression.
The signatories call on the UK government to amend the legislation, rejecting what they describe as "direct or indirect" censorship.
Rooney's books continue to be sold in Ireland.
