Sinn Féin has not released the safeguarding review it committed to publish over a year and a half ago, following a scandal that saw a former press officer convicted of child sex offences.

The party launched its governance review in November 2024 after it emerged that Michael McMonagle, a former press officer, was given job references by Sinn Féin after being arrested on child sex charges. McMonagle was later convicted.

A two-page progress report was issued in May 2025. It announced the appointment of a new HR manager and a director of corporate governance, but flagged that several matters remained outstanding. The document said a comprehensive review of disciplinary procedures was under way, with a final report expected within days.

On child protection, the May 2025 update stated that a draft policy would be cross-checked with existing internal rules before final approval. In a press release the same day, party president Mary Lou McDonald said the child protection policy had been updated.

A party spokesperson subsequently confirmed that an updated child protection policy was formally adopted by the Ard Comhairle in April 2026. Sinn Féin did not respond when asked for a copy of the completed review.