Ireland Internationals 'Relieved Of Their Duties' Following PSNI Charges
The IRFU have today released a statement to say that they "are aware that Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding have been charged by the PSNI in relation to serious allegations made against them."
The players both "strenuously deny the charges."
The Ireland internationals have both been "relieved of their duties and obligations" by the union and by their province, Ulster, until the process has concluded.
The statement in full reads:
"The IRFU and Ulster Rugby are aware that Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding have been charged by the PSNI in relation to serious allegations made against them.
"The players have cooperated fully and strenuously deny the charges.
"The IRFU and Ulster Rugby take these allegations extremely seriously.
"To allow the players time to address this matter fully Ulster Rugby and the IRFU have agreed that they be relieved of their duties and obligations until the conclusion of this process. Appropriate support structures will be put in place with them during this time.
"As this is a matter for the Public Prosecution Service it would be inappropriate to comment further."