The DUP leader has appointed Jim Gamble's iNEQE Safeguarding Group to conduct an Independent Focused Safeguarding Review into former party leader Jeffrey Donaldson's time as a member. This review aims to examine what occurred within the party regarding Donaldson, what was known, what could have been known, and to assess the adequacy of current safeguarding policies and procedures.
Gavin Robinson, the DUP leader, stated he is "pleased" that Gamble's company is undertaking the review, emphasizing that he has engaged "the UK's foremost expert" and has "no questions about his independence or capacity to do this review." Robinson indicated the review is intended to provide assurance to himself and the public about the events and the party's internal processes.
The appointment follows a BBC Spotlight investigation that revealed two senior DUP members were informed of allegations against Donaldson five years ago by a young woman who claimed she had been "exploited" by him. Earlier this year, Gamble was also appointed to conduct an external review of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland's governance and safeguarding arrangements.
Concerns have been raised by the Northern Ireland Survivor Council regarding the potential for one organization to conduct both reviews simultaneously. The council has called for the DUP to commission a "different" safeguarding organization to undertake its review to ensure independent and robust examination.