The IRFU have confirmed that Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding will continue to be relieved of all duties with Ulster and Ireland.
Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding had denied raping a 19-year-old student at a party in Jackson’s Belfast home in June 2016, they were found not guilty on Wednesday afternoon.
Blane McIlroy had denied a charge of exposure and Rory Harrison had denied perverting the course of justice and withholding information.
The trial lasted for 9 weeks and today after 3 hours and 40 minutes of deliberations all 4 defendants were acquitted.
The IRFU and Ulster have announced a review in to the case, which will be conducted by senior representatives of both organisations.
In a statement noting the verdict, the IRFU said that an earlier internal review was postponed in an effort to respect the judicial proceedings, now that the proceedings have concluded they have begun a separate probe.
IRFU STATEMENT
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.
