Sports reporter and presenter for broadcaster SBS, Scott McIntyre, has been the subject of social media controversy and backlash overnight, as a series of “disrespectful” tweets have reportedly led to McIntyre’s termination by SBS.
McIntyre posted five tweets in close succession on ANZAC day yesterday, condemning the “cultification [sic] of imperialist invasion”, the commercialisation and enthusiastic celebration—rather than commemoration—of ANZAC day and the efforts of Australian troops.
Remembering the summary execution, widespread rape and theft committed by these ‘brave’ Anzacs in Egypt, Palestine and Japan.
— Scott McIntyre (@mcintinhos) April 25, 2015
Wonder if the poorly-read, largely white, nationalist drinkers and gamblers pause today to consider the horror that all mankind suffered.
— Scott McIntyre (@mcintinhos) April 25, 2015
The series of McIntyre’s tweets have not been edited or deleted on his Twitter account.
SBS managing director Michel Ebeid labelled McIntyre’s tweets “inappropriate” and “disrespectful”, confirming his sacking in a statement:
“Mr McIntyre’s actions have breached the SBS code of conduct and social media policy and as a result, SBS has taken decisive action to terminate Mr McIntyre’s position at SBS, with immediate effect.”
Ebeid also issued an official apology on behalf of SBS for any offence caused by McIntyre’s tweets. Communications minister Malcolm Turnbull also explicitly denounced McIntyre’s sentiments on twitter:
Difficult to think of more offensive or inappropriate comments than those by @mcintinhos. Despicable remarks which deserve to be condemned.
— Malcolm Turnbull (@TurnbullMalcolm) April 25, 2015
Greens leader Christine Milne also expressed concern over ANZAC Day “celebrations” on Sky News this morning, saying:
“In some circles it has morphed from a commemoration and respectful honouring of the dead and horror of what went on and understanding a sacrifice to switching over into a half celebration kind of event.”
Via The Guardian.
Lead image by Chris Hyde via Getty.
