The recent conviction of former Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson for 18 counts of sexual abuse, including one count of rape, has been described by a retired judge as a pivotal moment for victims in Northern Ireland. Sir John Gillen, who led a significant review into the handling of sexual offences, stated that the trial's outcome has 'struck a blow' against a long-standing culture that historically 'hasn't properly heard women and girls and children'.
Sir John conducted a comprehensive review in 2019, making 250 recommendations aimed at reforming how sexual offence cases are managed within the justice system. Speaking after Donaldson's conviction, he emphasised that while 'there's much to be done', the trial's conclusion has 'spoken to women and victims', suggesting a positive shift in how such cases are perceived and processed. As of May 2026, 86% of Sir John's recommendations have been assessed as fully or partially implemented.
Among the key recommendations highlighted by Sir John was the increased use of video-recorded interviews between police and complainants. He noted that this, alongside the establishment of remote evidence centres, represents a 'radical change' moving towards greater 'privacy and dignity' for those giving evidence. These reforms, he believes, will significantly 'make it a lot easier for victims to come forward' in the future.
Another crucial aspect of the reforms addressed the need to combat 'rape myths and stereotypes' within the courtroom, which Sir John described as 'impediments to justice in the past'. He observed that anyone witnessing recent trials would recognise 'the sea change that has happened in the way that rape myths are dealt with'. The Bar Council affirmed that robust mechanisms are in place during Crown Court trials, ensuring only appropriate questions are put to victims and witnesses, with barristers and judges receiving training on rape myths.
The Donaldson trial itself provided a clear example of these changes in practice. Victims were able to give evidence and undergo cross-examination via video link, thereby avoiding the direct courtroom environment. This measure, along with restricted public access to serious sexual offence cases in the Crown Court – limited to those directly involved and bona fide journalists – aims to protect the privacy and well-being of complainants. These changes followed a public debate sparked by the 2018 trial of two Ulster Rugby players, Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding, who were acquitted of rape, which brought into sharp focus concerns about social media's impact on such proceedings.