29/03/2018

IRFU And Ulster Rugby Open Review Following Rape Trial Verdict

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and Ulster Rugby have opened a review to determine the futures of Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding.

The pair were acquitted of rape following a nine-week trial in Belfast Crown Court.

Jackson and Olding denied raping the woman at a house in south Belfast in June 2016.

A jury of eight men and three men returned a unanimous verdict on Wednesday, 28 March.

In a joint statement, the IRFU and Ulster Rugby said: "The IRFU and Ulster Rugby note the verdict handed down today at the Belfast crown court in relation to the case brought against Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding.

“We wish to acknowledge that this has undoubtedly been a difficult and extremely traumatic time for all involved. To respect the judicial proceedings the IRFU and Ulster Rugby postponed any internal review of the matter with the players, until the proceedings concluded.

"IRFU and Ulster Rugby officials will review the matter, in line with existing procedures for all contracted players. A review committee, made up of senior representatives of the IRFU and Ulster Rugby, has been appointed and will conclude its review as soon as practicable. The players will continue to be relieved of all duties while the review committee is in process and determining its findings."

(CD/LM)

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