IRELAND and Ulster rugby star Paddy Jackson has spoken of his shame and feelings of betrayal in a new statement since he was found not guilty in the Belfast rape trial last week.
Speaking to the Press Association, Jackson said that he is ashamed that the woman who accused him of rape left his home distressed.
He also apologised for engaging in “degrading and offensive” WhatsApp chats and says he has betrayed his family’s values.
In the full statement, Jackson said: “I am ashamed that a young woman who was a visitor to my home left in a distressed state. This was never my intention and I will always regret the events of that evening.
“I am also truly sorry for engaging in a WhatsApp group chat which was degrading and offensive and I apologise unreservedly for this.
“The criticism of my behaviour is fully justified and I know I have betrayed the values of my family and those of the wider public.
“Following the trial I have taken time to reflect with my family on the values that were such an integral part of my upbringing, the most important of which is respect. My departure from these values has caused understandable public anger and I am resolutely committed to returning to those principles.”
