Weeks after Northern Ireland govt resumes, DUP's Sir Jeffrey Donaldson suspended amid sexual offence charges

Nearly two months after the Northern Ireland's government resumed post a 24-month lull and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) concerns regarding post-Brexit trade arrangements, the party's leaderSir Jeffrey Donaldson has been suspended from his position after being charged with sexual offences.

The charges against Donaldson come alongside those of a 57-year-old woman who has been accused of "aiding and abetting additional offences". Both are due to appear before Newry Magistrates' Court on April 24.

Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade arrangements had been a focal point of contention since the UK's decision to leave the European Union. The status of Northern Ireland is unique due to its border with the Republic of Ireland, which is an EU member.

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When the UK exited the bloc, a trade deal was important to put in place to facilitate trade between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. TheStormont started to function after two years after a new deal, supported by DUP, was finalised this year.

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Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has beenmade to step down for the time being as the outcome of the legal proceedings remains pending. After Donaldson quit, Gavin Robinson MP was appointed as an interim leader.

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The DUP in a statement said, "In accordance with the party rules, the party officers have suspended Mr Donaldson from membership, pending the outcome of a judicial process.""The party officers have this morning unanimously appointed Mr Gavin Robinson MP as the interim party leader."

Prior to this announcement, Donaldsondeleted his social media handles.Having served in politics for nearly four decades, Donaldson's career began with the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) before joining the DUP in 2004. He was knighted by the Queen in 2016.

(With inputs from agencies)