George Hook has apologised for his comments about rape, after he received serious backlash online.
Last week, the Newstalk presenter was heavily criticised after he argued that “there is a point of responsibility” that young women should take “for their own safety”, while discussing sexual assault on his radio show.
Yesterday, George apologised live on air, and admitted that his comments were “totally inappropriate and unacceptable.”
“It was wrong of me to suggest that any blame could be attributed to those victims or that they bear any responsibility in the crimes committed against them,” he said.
George Hook’s comments are dangerous, and a perfect encapsulation of rape culture. His comments enable rapists.
— Womenscouncilireland (@NWCI) September 9, 2017
George Hook is a disgrace. The only thing that should happen if someone finds you drunk or passed out is check if you are ok and safe.
— Lynn Ruane (@SenLynnRuane) September 9, 2017
Today on @newstalk George Hook blamed a victim for being raped.
This is dangerous
This shouldn’t be tolerated pic.twitter.com/3xZ4pDOO62— Una Power (@unapower) September 8, 2017
George Hook victim blaming a drunk girl who got raped multiple times. And blaming her parents.
She was not any way responsible George.
Scum.— Vonny (@VonnyR7) September 8, 2017
“By doing that I played a part in perpetuating the stigma and I unreservedly apologise for doing so.
“Everybody has the right to enjoy themselves without fear of being attacked and as a society we have a duty to our daughters and granddaughters to protect that right.
“On Friday, I failed in that duty of care, a failure I deeply regret and for which I am truly sorry,” he added.
George’s apology comes after the Dalata Hotel Group ended their sponsorship deal with Newstalk due to his comments.
The group released a statement on Twitter, writing, “Dalata Hotels cannot support any radio station that allows inappropriate and hurtful comments to be made.
“Our commercial relationship with Newstalk and sponsorship of George Hook High Noon has been terminated this morning.”
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