University of B.C. president Stephen Toope is being asked to intervene in a dispute that has cost a popular campus pub its ability to serve alcohol.

In March, UBC decided to indefinitely withdraw the liquor licence for Koerner’s Pub, which is operated by the post-secondary school’s graduate student society. University officials, who control the licence, cited concerns about underage drinking and poor management at the establishment.

The decision came shortly after an intoxicated student who had apparently been drinking at the pub was injured and required surgery after falling from a roof overhang on the campus.

Arvind Saraswat, president of the UBC graduate student society, has written to Toope expressing frustration with how the university has since handled the matter.

“The suspension is beginning to cripple the GSS financially, and has likewise straitened the finances of almost two dozen students who work in the pub,” reads the July 2 letter from Saraswat, which was sent to the Straight.

“It is my submission that UBC’s handling of this matter is disproportionate and unwarranted,” the letter continues.

Saraswat notes steps have been taken to have the licence restored, including management changes and increased oversight from the graduate student society executive.

Saraswat also questions whether the university wants to “take over” the graduate student centre, and seeks assurance UBC supports the existence of a pub in the Graduate Student Centre.

In closing, the letter to Toope reads: “Your immediate intervention in this matter will be highly appreciated.”