Council to carry out investigation into potential safeguarding concerns during Jeffrey Donaldson’s time as councillor

A proposal was supported at a council meeting that could see a “confidential” process for possible witnesses to come forward with evidence about the former Lisburn councillor.

Donaldson, 63, was recently been jailed for 15 years for a series of child sex offences against two child victims, including one count of rape, which took place between 1985 and 2008. He is seeking to appeal his convictions.

In chambers, Councillor Gary Hynds said: "Could I propose the council carry out a proportionate review of any records held by the council relating to Jeffrey Donaldson’s time as a councillor between 2005 and 2011?

“Given the seriousness of the offences for which he has been convicted, and the further allegations since, I believe it is reasonable to establish whether any complaints or concerns about his behaviour were brought to the council’s attention during that period.

“I am not calling for an expensive investigation, nor am I suggesting that any complaints exist.

“I am simply asking that the council check what records are available, consider whether a confidential route should be provided for anyone who may have relevant concerns to come forward, and report back to the appropriate committee on any findings or lessons for safeguarding.”

Following the outcome of a Newry court case in June, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council removed photographs featuring Jeffrey Donaldson from display in its facilities.

In 1997, when James Molyneaux retired as the Lagan Valley MP, Donaldson retained the seat for the UUP.

In 2003, he quit the UUP, defected to the DUP and retained his Westminster seat for Lagan Valley.

During 2005 and 2011, Donaldson double jobbed as a councillor on the legacy council of Lisburn City.

Councillor Hynds added: "The Northern Ireland Assembly has undertaken a review of its own records and arrangements in relation to Jeffrey Donaldson’s time as an MLA, and I know his two former parties are doing the same.

“I believe it is reasonable for us to consider whether a similar, proportionate approach is appropriate here.

“This is about safeguarding, transparency and ensuring that nobody who may have been affected is overlooked.

“I would therefore ask the chief executive to take this away, consider what can reasonably be done within existing resources, and advise council on the appropriate next steps.”

The proposal was seconded by Lisburn North DUP councillor Jonathan Craig with no further discussion on the matter in the chamber.

Further allegations have now surfaced with the police investigating the former DUP leader.

A Met Police spokesperson said: “On Tuesday October 13, the Met received a report referred to us by the Police Service of Northern Ireland relating to an allegation of rape in 2016, by a man now aged 63.

“The allegation relates to one victim who is being supported by specialist officers. The investigation is in its early stages. No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.”

Since his conviction, Donaldson has been stripped of his knighthood and removed from the Privy Council.

His solicitor has previously confirmed that papers have been lodged for an appeal.