Jeffrey Donaldson sex crimes were ‘evil and horrific’, Taoiseach says

A spokesman for the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland said: 'We do not comment on individual cases.'

Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at Newry Crown Court on Monday. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA

The sex crimes committed by Jeffrey Donaldson against children were “evil and horrific”, Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said.

Donaldson, once the leader of the DUP and the long-time MP for Lagan Valley, is currently on remand in Maghaberry Prison ahead of his sentencing later in the year.