A Fermanagh solicitor has resigned from the Council of the Law Society of Northern Ireland amid the fallout from a character reference given by the Society's chief executive for a convicted sex offender.

Julie-Ann McCaffrey, from Arney and a director at international law firm DWF, stepped down from the Society's Executive and Personnel Committees before ultimately leaving the Council. Her departure also ends her membership of the Education Committee and her role as chair of the Society's Commercial Practice Group.

She is the second Council member to resign over the controversy. Earlier this month, Philip Armstrong, who chaired the Conveyancing and Property Committee, also left the Council.

The dispute centres on chief executive David Lavery's decision to provide a character reference for his cousin, William Lloyd-Lavery. The former teacher was sentenced to two years in prison in April after being convicted of six counts of indecent assault against four girls at a Belfast school during the 1970s.

David Lavery apologised unreservedly for what he described as a serious error in judgment. He remains in post following an internal process.

In a statement, Ms McCaffrey said she remained on the Council for as long as she felt possible because she believed it was important to have strong voices at the table. She stated her view that constructive challenge and asking appropriate questions are essential, and that her primary identity is as a member of the profession. She said her decision was about acting with integrity, even though it meant leaving roles she valued greatly and enjoyed.

Ms McCaffrey thanked those who had sent messages of support and said she looked forward to spending more time with her clients and colleagues at DWF.