Sinn Féin has called on the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Edwin Poots, to stand aside while investigations continue into the handling of concerns raised about Jeffrey Donaldson's behaviour prior to his conviction for child sexual abuse.

The call follows an investigation that revealed Mr Poots was made aware in 2021 of a young woman who said she had been exploited by Mr Donaldson. The woman did not wish to make a formal complaint, and Mr Poots has said the information he received did not involve criminal or safeguarding matters.

Mr Donaldson, the former DUP leader, was convicted last week at Newry Crown Court of 18 historical sex offences, including rape, against two children. He is due to be sentenced on 25 September, with legal experts estimating a custodial term of between 12 and 20 years. He remains in custody at Maghaberry Prison.

Addressing the Assembly on Monday, Mr Poots said he had asked the Assembly's chief executive to investigate any complaints relating to Mr Donaldson's time as an MLA. He also urged the Westminster Speaker to take similar steps. Mr Poots recused himself from presiding over a debate on the issue but insisted he had nothing to answer for.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson said he had no reason to doubt Mr Poots's account. He said the party is commissioning an independent review into issues that have emerged since the conviction. Mr Robinson accused other parties of exploiting the situation for political gain and said some former and current DUP members had information that was not passed through appropriate party channels.

Sinn Féin Chief Whip Sinéad Ennis told MLAs that the Speaker's knowledge of the concerns raised serious questions. She described the failure to act as at best a gross misjudgement and at worst a fundamental moral failure, and called on Mr Poots to step aside pending full disclosure.

Other political leaders also pressed for clarity. Alliance leader Naomi Long said Mr Poots should consider stepping aside to protect the integrity of the Speaker's office. First Minister Michelle O'Neill urged him to explain what steps he took and whether he fulfilled his safeguarding responsibilities. Opposition leader Matthew O'Toole and TUV leader Jim Allister said the public needed a clear explanation of what happened.

Mr Poots maintained that he observed the wishes of the woman at all times and that no criminal or safeguarding issues were raised. He said he understood the Police Service of Northern Ireland had investigated the matter and found nothing to proceed on.