Stormont review into Jeffrey Donaldson complete

A review into allegations of abuse or inappropriate behavior related to former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson at Stormont has concluded. The former MP was found guilty of 18 sexual offense charges, including rape, in June after a four-week trial in Newry. The review's findings were sent to the Assembly's clerk and chief executive this afternoon.

The spokesperson stated that they will now evaluate the report and determine if a summary can be made public. The investigation began last month, aiming to investigate any allegations about Donaldson's behavior during his tenure as a Stormont Assembly member from 2003 to 2010 and when he visited Parliament Buildings as an MP. The review was carried out by a senior Assembly safeguarding officer, who was advised by experts in trauma-informed practices.

The review's goal was to allow current or former Assembly members, staff from political parties, and others to safely report any incidents of abuse or inappropriate behavior they experienced while Donaldson was an Assembly member or visitor to Parliament Buildings. It was also intended to highlight any matters that may require further investigation or referral to the PSNI or other statutory bodies.

Donaldson is set to be sentenced late next month or early October, but he is seeking permission to appeal his conviction.