The former Ireland and Ulster Rugby players have expressed their feelings following the loss of their sporting careers.
Following the results of the Belfast trial acquitting Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding of the rape of a 19-year-old woman, Ulster Rugby and IRFU confirmed news they would conduct an internal review into the pair’s rugby futures following the trial.
Following the review, the organisations have decided to end the contracts belonging to both Mr Jackson and Mr Olding.
The statement posted on Irish Rugby said the contracts of both players have been revoked:
"Following a review, conducted in the aftermath of recent court proceedings, the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby have revoked the contracts of Patrick Jackson and Stuart Olding with immediate effect."
The statement also said both organisations would do better to ensure their values of respect, inclusivity and integrity would be followed by their players and fans in the future:
"In arriving at this decision, the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby acknowledge our responsibility and commitment to the core values of the game: Respect, Inclusivity and Integrity.
It has been agreed, as part of this commitment, to conduct an in-depth review of existing structures and educational programmes, within the game in Ireland, to ensure the importance of these core values is clearly understood, supported and practised at every level of the game."
Since the statement released by Ulster Rugby and the IRFU, both Mr Jackson and Olding have issued statements to the Press Association.
Mr Jackson said he was "deeply disappointed" by the outcome of the review, but said he would focus on "rebuilding the trust placed" in him by the people of Ireland.
Paddy Jackson tells @PA he is “deeply disappointed” to have been sacked by Ulster and Ireland. pic.twitter.com/7X3Mf4711M
— David Young (@DavidYoungPA) April 14, 2018
Mr Olding said he was "fiercely proud of having played for my province and country" and said he would "seek new challenges elsewhere".
Stuart Olding also expresses regret at the move to sack him. pic.twitter.com/K8KTo3ccwK
— David Young (@DavidYoungPA) April 14, 2018
