Donaldson’s ‘vile actions’ will not define DUP values, Robinson says

Gavin Robinson has said he will not let the “vile actions” of disgraced former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson define the party’s “values and integrity”.

Mr Robinson made the comments during his speech at the DUP conference on Saturday.

Ex-MP Donaldson, 63, was convicted at Newry Crown Court earlier this year of 18 sex offences, including one count of rape, relating to the abuse of two women when they were children.

The offences were committed between 1985 and 2008.

Donaldson is appealing against the jury verdicts against him.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson delivers the keynote speech to his party conference (Brian Lawless/PA)

PA Wire

It was confirmed earlier this week that his wife, Eleanor Donaldson, is also set to appeal the jury verdict that she aided and abetted her husband’s offending.

Mr Robinson said: “In the year since, we have had to confront the appalling crimes against children committed by a man who once led this party.

“This party acted decisively in March 2024 when Jeffrey Donaldson was first charged.

“Our first thoughts are with his victims. They deserve our compassion, support and respect.

“And I know that many good people in this hall, and beyond, feel deceived and deeply let down by a life of lies.

“I understand that – because I share it.

“But our responsibility goes beyond expressing how we feel. It requires action and answers.

“That is why I commissioned an independent review to establish what – if anything – was known in this party concerning allegations of inappropriate conduct relating to safeguarding and to examine our reporting mechanisms.

“That is the standard we must meet.

“As leader of this party, I will always choose the harbour of truth.

“We will face the past honestly. And we will not let the vile actions of one man define our values and our integrity.”