DUP ‘no comment’ on Donaldson development

TYRONE’S Democratic Unionist Party politicians are remaining tight-lipped about the sexual abuse scandal swallowing up their recently-resigned party leader.

Meanwhile, as the drama continues to unfold, Michelle O’Neill has said her focus remains on working with other parties to provide good governance for the North.

In a statement over the weekend, the Sinn Féin First Minister said, “My priority is to continue to provide the leadership the public expect and deserve, and to ensure the four-party Executive coalition delivers for the whole of our community now and in the future.

“The DUP leader has resigned after being charged with serious offences.

“This is now a matter for the criminal justice system.”

In the course of attempting to contact local DUP representatives to discuss the allegations facing their former leader, this newspaper learned that party members have been ordered to issue a ‘no comment’ response on the subject.

The 61-year-old Lagan Valley MP has been charged with a number of historical sexual offences, including rape.

As part of his bail conditions, he has been forbidden from contacting a 57-year-old woman that was arrested alongside him. She has been charged with aiding and abetting additional offences.

Yesterday (Sunday), the PSNI issued a clarifying statement, “We are aware of ongoing commentary on social media platforms and in the mainstream media regarding the timeline of this investigation.

“As strict guidance: Police received a complaint in March 2024 alleging the commission of non-recent offences, and we immediately commenced an investigation in this matter. This investigation led to the arrest and charge of two suspects on March 28, 2024.”

Both Donaldson and his co-accused are due to appear before Newry Magistrates’ Court on April 24.

Gavin Robinson has been appointed interim leader, pending a potential leadership contest.