Parties Demand Clarity on DUP's Knowledge of Jeffrey Donaldson Allegations

Sinn Féin and Alliance question DUP's knowledge of Jeffrey Donaldson's alleged misconduct after new sexual assault claims emerge. Police are assessing reports, while parties call for transparency and accountability.

Allegations Against Jeffrey Donaldson

Jeffrey Donaldson was convicted on 18 counts of sexual abuse against two women when they were children.

Sinn Féin and the Alliance Party have raised questions regarding what the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) knew about the conduct of its former leader Jeffrey Donaldson.

On Tuesday, the Belfast Telegraph published a report in which a woman alleged that Donaldson sexually assaulted her in November 2016 and that she had informed a senior party member about the incident.

The woman stated that the assault took place in the DUP's Westminster offices after Donaldson had given her a tour of the building.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed it had received a report concerning a non-recent offence and was currently "assessing the information."

In June, Donaldson was found guilty of 18 counts of sexual abuse, including one count of rape, involving two women during their childhood. He remains in custody awaiting sentencing.

The woman featured in the Belfast Telegraph article described that Donaldson placed his hand up her skirt and attempted to kiss her.

Deidre Hargey has brown hair down to her shoulders parted in the middle. She is speaking during a committee meeting with a microphone in front of her — Image caption, Sinn Féin's Deidre Hargey said the DUP needed "to provide the answers and accountability that people deserve"

Calls for Accountability from Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin's Deidre Hargey emphasized the necessity for the DUP to provide transparency and accountability.

"The DUP could not hide behind an independent review it announced following Donaldson's conviction."

"The public are entitled to answers from the DUP leader [Gavin Robinson] and from the deputy first minister [Emma Little-Pengelly]."

"The DUP, and the deputy first minister, need to provide the answers and accountability that people deserve."

"They should speak out publicly and encourage all victims of Donaldson to come forward."

The BBC has sought comment from the DUP regarding these developments.

Alliance Party's Concerns

Alliance deputy leader Eóin Tennyson described the Belfast Telegraph's report as "deeply concerning."

"Taken alongside other recent reports, including separate claims about a 'warning' allegedly given to another young woman about Donaldson's behaviour, each new revelation raises further questions about whether opportunities were missed to protect people and what action was taken," said the Upper Bann MLA.

"The public is entitled to expect openness and transparency about who knew what and when."

"These serious questions cannot simply be brushed aside."

Accusations of Hypocrisy Among Parties

Following Donaldson's convictions, several individuals have spoken out regarding his alleged past behaviour. Contributors to NI's Spotlight programme reported that Donaldson's conduct included public intoxication, visiting a gay sauna, and inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague during a trip abroad.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson has previously accused other political parties of exploiting the situation for political gain.

"The hypocrisy that lies behind those in politics using this tragedy for their own political ends, it's not only disappointing but I think it's clear for the public to see," Robinson stated.

He added that the DUP's internal review of Donaldson's tenure would be thorough.

"The DUP review into Donaldson's time in the party won't leave any stone unturned, we're bringing someone in who is independent to conduct this review in a way no other party has."