O'Neill Faces Questions Over McMonagle Controversy

Michelle O'Neill, Sinn Féin's vice-president, is facing scrutiny in the Northern Ireland Assembly over her handling of former press officer Michael McMonagle, who has admitted to multiple child sex offences. DUP MLA Diane Dodds raised urgent questions about whether O'Neill's office has lost public confidence due to alleged failures in safeguarding and due diligence when McMonagle was employed. McMonagle was hired by the British Heart Foundation in September 2022, following references from Sinn Féin colleagues that did not disclose his criminal background. O'Neill has expressed regret, acknowledging 'serious omissions' in how the party managed McMonagle's references, and has apologized for the distress caused. Critics, including the DUP and SDLP, are demanding O'Neill's appearance before the Assembly for further accountability and transparency. The controversy highlights significant concerns about child protection protocols within political parties in Northern Ireland.