Debate contribution: Jeffrey Donaldson: Rape and Child Sexual Abuse Conviction
Debate contribution by Miss Michelle McIlveen on .
- MLA
- Miss Michelle McIlveen
- Party at the time
- Democratic Unionist Party
- Date
- 23 June 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution
- Business
- Matter of the Day
- Heading
- Jeffrey Donaldson: Rape and Child Sexual Abuse Conviction
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5636680
Read the official Assembly record
Text
A jury has concluded that Jeffrey Donaldson is guilty of some of the most heinous and despicable crimes imaginable. We welcome the fact that justice has been done and the rule of law has prevailed. Our thoughts are, first and foremost, with the innocent victims whose lives were profoundly impacted on by his vile and filthy behaviour. What they endured was wicked. The abuse itself was appalling, but so too was the burden placed upon them in having to relive that trauma through a lengthy criminal process. It is right that he will face the full force of the law in sentencing. Today, we stand with those victims. We salute their courage, resilience and determination to speak the truth. Their bravery in coming forward should serve as an encouragement to others who have suffered abuse that they will be heard and believed. No one is above the law. It does not matter how prominent a person may be, what position they hold or how much influence they possess. Everyone is equal before the law and equally subject to it. The evidence presented in this case was shocking. It is now clear beyond doubt that Jeffrey Donaldson abused positions of trust and power over many years while concealing vile and manipulative behaviour. It is now clear that Jeffrey Donaldson led a double and duplicitous life. His lies and cover-ups have been exposed. The spotlight of justice has shone upon them. That should serve as a reminder that perpetrators cannot outrun justice. We are writing to the Forfeiture Committee, through the Cabinet Office, asking that Jeffrey Donaldson be stripped off his knighthood and Privy Council titles. Today, however, our thoughts remain with the victims. We pray that the verdict brings comfort as they move forward with their lives.
296 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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