The very-recently-former editor-in-chief of The Age, Mark Forbes, has released a statement following his surprise resignation amid allegations of sexual assault.
The Melbourne newspaper’s head honcho – who only took the job eight months ago, before which he was news director – was formally suspended on Friday, after a junior colleague made a formal complaint alleging he “groped her on the bottom” at the Age Music Victoria awards in November.
After his suspension on Friday, a second female colleague came forward alleging he made inappropriate comments about her being “busty” at social engagement back in February, when he was still news director.
You can read the full statement right here:
“I am stepping down from my position as Editor in Chief of The Age and leaving Fairfax Media.“The Age is one of Australia’s strongest journalistic institutions, and has campaigned strongly for social justice. We have been outspoken on the treatment of women, and harassment in any form.“The Age demands the highest standards of behaviour from our leaders, in the community, business and politics. As EIC of The Age, I must uphold all the standards which we would expect in others.“I acknowledge and accept that I have not done so. Whatever the circumstance, even a single lapse of judgement in upholding these standards should have serious consequences.“Accordingly, I believe it is untenable to remain as EIC.“I again apologise to the person concerned, and I apologise to all of you as, ultimately, I have let you down.“I want the outstanding and courageous journalism of The Age newsroom, on gender, justice, inequality and holding the great and powerful to account, to continue unobstructed.“I accept and support the right of any employee who feels they have been treated unfairly, disrespectfully, or harassed to report it.“This is, I hope, a reminder to all that our dealings with all women must be respectful and equitable at all times.“For those who have expressed support over these recent days, I thank you, but I know in my heart this is the right thing to do.“I want to thank the staff of The Age for their outstanding work this year, under challenging circumstances, and my admiration for the dedication of my colleagues that I have witnessed over every day during more than 30 years with Fairfax.”
Forbes has been at the paper since 1985.
Source: Mumbrella.
Photo: The Age.
