UPDATE: Sinn Féin respond to Stanley claims of 'character assassination’

Sinn Féin has issued a statement this evening in response to Deputy Brian Stanley’s claim that he was the subject of “a character assassination”  prior to his shock resignation from the party at the weekend.

Deputy Stanley earlier claimed his rights weren’t protected and that Sinn Féin should have brought an allegation to gardaí on September 11. 

Responding this evening party HQ said: “It is now for the Gardaí to decide if any of the matters we have brought to their attention require further investigation.”

The Sinn Féin spokesperson said: “The party was contacted on 26th July by the complainant as set out in our statement issued yesterday.

 “Our disciplinary committee contacted the complainant on 1st August, outlining the procedures to make a formal complaint. She then submitted a full statement on 2nd August. This marked the official commencement of the disciplinary process. 

“On July 29th, the party leader had a brief exchange with Deputy Stanley as outlined on Morning Ireland today. In that conversation, Deputy Stanley indicated that he thought that a complaint might be made about him. The nature of the potential complaint was not discussed or disclosed. The party leader informed him that any complaint, if made, would be dealt with through the party disciplinary process. 

 “As stated yesterday, during the course of the preliminary inquiry a number of issues of concern were raised including one by Brian Stanley.

 “He was advised to go to the Gardaí to report this matter but chose not to. He was accompanied by his barrister and solicitor so was fully advised of his rights and entitlements. 

“Following the completion of the preliminary stage of the inquiry and report, and having taken further legal advice the party has referred both the complaint and counter allegation to the Gardaí."

Read Deputy Stanley's earlier statement here: BREAKING: Brian Stanley issues fresh statement alleging 'character assassination'