The head of the Arts Council says women who've complained about Michael Colgan need to 'trust' the Gate's investigation into his behaviour.

His accusers have rejected a public apology over the weekend which saw the former artistic director defend his 'misjudged' actions.

The women say they won't engage with the official investigation by the theatre, until all board members have been removed from it.

But Arts Council Director Orlaith Mc Bride says the industrial relations expert who's running it will ensure it's impartial:

'I would urge those women to participate in this process because I genuinely do believe that it is an independent process.'