Significant Changes in Justice System Highlighted by Donaldson Trial
Sir John Gillen, a retired judge who led a comprehensive review of sexual offence procedures in Northern Ireland, has described the handling of the Jeffrey Donaldson child sex abuse trial as demonstrating "monumental" changes in the justice system's approach to such cases.
In 2019, Sir John Gillen made 250 recommendations aimed at improving how sexual offences are managed. On Monday, Jeffrey Donaldson, former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, was convicted on 18 counts of sexual abuse, including one count of rape, involving two women who were minors at the time of the offences.
"The trial has struck a blow against a culture in Northern Ireland which hasn't properly heard women and girls and children in the past," Sir John Gillen said.
He acknowledged that while progress has been made, "there's much to be done," but emphasized that the trial's outcome has "spoken to women and victims."
Key Recommendations and Their Implementation
One of the primary recommendations from Gillen's review was the introduction of video-recorded interviews between police and complainants. This measure exemplifies the "radical" changes underway, including the use of remote evidence centres designed to enhance privacy and dignity for victims.
Another recommendation focused on addressing rape myths and stereotypes within the courtroom. Gillen noted:
"Anyone who has witnessed these trials will see now the sea change that has happened in the way that rape myths are dealt with."
He also highlighted the balanced approach taken during the Donaldson trial, stating:
"The judge conducted the trial in a way that protects the rights of the accused. There's a balance which has been established and I think this trial shows this."
Jeffrey Donaldson was found guilty on all 18 charges of sexual abuse he faced.
What Were Some of the Recommendations?
- Exclusion of the public from courtrooms in serious sexual offence cases.
- Pre-recorded cross-examination of complainants conducted away from the courtroom.
- Use of video-recorded police interviews to capture complainants' testimony.
- New legislation to address risks posed by social media and a firmer judicial stance to prevent improper cross-examination regarding previous sexual history.
As of May 2026, 86% of Sir John's recommendations have been assessed as fully or partially completed.
During the Donaldson trial, victims gave their testimony on camera before the court and were shielded from direct confrontation during cross-examination. This arrangement prevented them from facing a large audience while providing evidence.
The court also limited attendance by excluding members of the general public.
Why Was There a Review?
The review was initiated following a broad public debate triggered by the 2018 trial of two Ulster Rugby players, Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding, along with two other men. Jackson and Olding were acquitted of rape charges in March 2018.
In 2018, Sir John Gillen expressed concerns that social media could compel changes to sex trial procedures. He noted that in a small community such as Belfast, social media posts about cases can undermine the legal process by spreading inaccurate information, including false photographs and misleading details about complainants' histories.
Legislative changes in 2023 now restrict attendance at Crown Court sexual offence cases to individuals directly involved in the proceedings and "bona fide" journalists.
- Justice system taking 'too long' for sex crime reform
- Key recommendations of sex case trial review
- Call for mandatory sex education in primary school
