A CONTROVERSIAL photo of Paddy Jackson has resurfaced on social media following the aftermath of the rugby rape trial.
In the photograph, shared on Mr Jackson's social media accounts in July 2014, the 26-year-old, from Belfast, can be seen in chains dressed as an Ethiopian slave and with blackened skin.
Ulster player Chris Henry is also in the photo, dressed in similar garb. In May 2014, Mr Henry shared the image online. Mr Jackson later used the photo as his cover image on Twitter.
The snap garnered significant criticism at the time, with Ulster Rugby apologising "unreservedly for any offence caused".
A statement added: "It was not the intention of the players to cause upset and the photograph has since been removed."
The rugby club explained that the picture had been taken at an Olympic-themed fancy dress party in 2012.
Joseph Ricketts, from the African And Caribbean Support Organisation Northern Ireland, told Good Morning Ulster: "I am shocked and appalled by this irresponsible behaviour."
He added: "Whether they were trying to justify it as good craic, or something, people are offended by it and as public figures, which they are, they need to be more responsible in the way they behave."
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