Isaac, Kezia, Ammi and Enoch Burke had been active members of two college groups, the Christian Union, and the campus pro-Life group. However, after the students repeatedly complained of suffering intimidation and harassment, the college in November 2014 banned them for life from all student societies.

Last week, on the eve of a circuit court hearing, the university told the Burkes it was lifting the ban, and offered to not seek costs if they discontinued their action.

The students however rejected the offer.

“It has been over four years and six months since we were banned for life from societies at NUI Galway,” Enoch Burke said. “Now, on the eve of the court hearing, that ban has been lifted. The university should never have imposed this ban in the first place and we are pressing ahead for justice. The whole point of going to court is that the equal status Acts are there to offer redress for those who have been discriminated against, and that is our claim against the university”.

The case is being heard over three days in the Circuit Court in Galway this week.