National Women’s Council of Ireland welcomes decision to suspend Hook

Published: Friday, September 15, 2017

The National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) today welcomed the decision to suspend George Hook while an investigation into his victim blaming comments is ongoing.

Orla O’Connor, Director of NWCI said,
“The decision to suspend George Hook following his unacceptable and dangerous comments is a welcome one. It shows that Newstalk is taking the matter seriously, and that they are aware of the extremely damaging impact these remarks have on women who have experienced rape, particularly on those who are considering reporting the crime to An Garda Siochana. The events this week, from sponsors pulling their sponsorship, to the courageous stance taken by staff both collective and individual, has shown that these views will no longer find a receptive audience.”

Orla O’Connor concluded,
“A woman is never to blame for rape and sexual assault, and to say otherwise is grossly irresponsible. Rape is a very serious crime, and comments negating this, or blaming the victim should be treated seriously. NWCI made a complaint to Newstalk and to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) earlier this week. Allowing victim blaming comments by someone who is in a position of power, as a radio broadcaster is, enables others who think these remarks are acceptable. The onus is now on Newstalk to take measures to counter balance the impact of these comments on women.”

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For more information, please contact Sarah Clarkin, Communications Officer, 085 8619087