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28th Mar 2018

Ulster Rugby and IRFU issue statement in the wake of Jackson/Olding verdict

Tony Cuddihy

Jackson Olding

Paddy Jackson, Stuart Olding, Blane McIlroy and Rory Harrison were all found not guilty in Belfast on Wednesday.

Ulster Rugby and the IRFU have issued a statement after two of their players were found not guilty of rape and sexual assault in Belfast on Wednesday afternoon.

The IRFU will review the case following the end of the legal proceedings, with Jackson and Olding remaining suspended until the process is completed.

This is the statement in full

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.

Paddy Jackson has been found not guilty by the Belfast Crown Court

VIDEO: Paddy Jackson speaks after being found not guilty of rape at the Belfast Crown Court

READ: Paddy Jackson’s statement in full