Brian Stanley: Criminal complaints “would have been filed”

Regarding allegations that inappropriate text messages were sent by a party official to a 17-year-old in Northern Ireland, as first reported by the Independent, externalMcDonald said the matter had been referred to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and there had been no investigation or charges.

Meanwhile, a debate on child protection sparked by Sinn Féin’s actions will take place on Tuesday in the Dáil (lower house of the Irish parliament).

Time was set aside for all parties to discuss matters relating to two Sinn Féin press officers who gave references to former colleague Michael McMonagle who was facing allegations of pedophilia.

In September, McMonagle admitted a series of offenses including attempting to induce a child to engage in sexual activity.

He is expected to be sentenced in the coming weeks.

The two press officers, Seán Mag Uidhir and Caolán McGinley, have since resigned.

On this subject, McDonald declared that she had initiated an overhaul of procedures within the party.

Sinn Féin noted that members and representatives of other parties have given references to people accused of sex crimes, including current Ceann Comhairle (president) Seán Ó Fearghaíl.

“Mistakes were made, there were serious mistakes, behavior was not respected,” added McDonald.

“The rules were enforced…I maintain that our rules apply to everyone.

“It’s life. It’s politics.”