Hotel group right to stop Hook’s radio sponsorship

I was heartened to learn that Dalata Hotel Group have terminated their relationship with Newstalk following George Hook’s atrocious comments about victims of rape.

The considerable influence afforded to radio personalities cannot be granted without some semblance of accountability. Mr Hook’s remarks were beyond hurtful; they were harmful. They served to stigmatise those who have survived a heinous crime, as well as reinforcing the dangerous myth that rapists do not bear full

responsibility for their actions.

While the apology issued by Newstalk is to be welcomed, they have offered their listeners no tangible reassurance that Mr Hook’s future broadcasts will be fettered by even a modicum of accountability. In withdrawing their sponsorship, Dalata Hotel Group have introduced a degree of accountability that Newstalk have failed to provide internally. I applaud their integrity.

Robert O’Sullivan

St Luke’s Cross

Cork