Social Democrats' Sinéad Gibney on Sally Rooney controversy: Minister must "express our concerns about creeping censorship and authoritarianism in the UK"

The Social Democrats have released a statement urging Minister of Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee to "raise the outrageous censorship of author Sally Rooney with the UK Government."

Social Democrat TD and party spokesperson for arts and culture Sinéad Gibney expressed her concern about the banning of Sally Rooney's books in the UK, due to her support for Palestine Action.

"Sally Rooney is one of our most prominent contemporary authors. Her hugely successful books, and the TV shows based on them, are cherished the world over.

"Because of her support for Palestine Action, Ms Rooney’s UK publisher, Faber, will not be able to sell her books.

"Her publishers have explained that they cannot pass on royalties from the sale of her books because of an interpretation of UK terrorism laws as they apply to the author’s support for Palestine Action – a group that has bizarrely been prescribed as a terrorist organisation by British authorities.

"At a time when international law is being so grossly violated by Israel and others, those who stand up against genocide and war crimes should be supported, not punished."

Minister Helen McEntee said she would speak to UK foreign minister Ed Miliband directly about the issue.

"I know Sally Rooney. I like her work. We all watch it, and read it as well. I have spoken a number of times to the foreign minister, who has clearly set out his position in support of Palestine.

"In terms of this specific decision, I have no problem speaking directly to the minister but obviously any decision on their laws and how they are interpreted by the courts is a matter for their courts. I will speak directly to the minister."

Sally Rooney author previously said she would continue to support Palestine Action through proceeds from her book sales and television adaptations.

However, in a statement to RTÉ, the Intermezzo author said that continuing to publish her work in the UK could now constitute a serious criminal offence.

Rooney's publisher Faber said current UK legislation meant it is unable to pass on earnings from UK sales to Rooney.

"To sell a writer's work and not be able to pass on earnings is an unconscionable situation for a publisher," the publisher wrote in a statement.

"As such, and in full agreement with Sally, we have taken the decision that we can no longer supply her works in the UK in any format."

Palestine Action was classed a terrorist organisation in the UK last July, over 3,700 people are believed to have been arrested for alleged support of the organisation since it was banned. Most for holding placards saying: "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action."