http://www.smh.com.au/sport/abc-suspends-announcer-over-racist-remarks-20130508-2j8ew.html
ABC suspends announcer over 'racist' remarks
Adrian Proszenko, Glenn Jackson
The voice of rugby league for ABC Radio has been stood down pending an investigation into alleged racist remarks aired during the national broadcaster's NRL coverage on Monday.
The veteran caller David Morrow, who has been part of the ABC's coverage of rugby league on TV and radio since 1980, was understood to have been telling a joke before the St George Illawarra-Manly clash, not realising he had been put to air earlier than expected.
The ABC confirmed on Wednesday that an investigation had been launched, with Morrow to remain suspended until it was completed.
"David Morrow has been suspended from duties pending the resolution of an investigation into his recent on-air comments," an ABC spokesperson said.
The ABC received several complaints over the matter.
"It's disappointing," said ABC Grandstand manager Craig Norenbergs.
"Obviously from an ABC values, managerial and personal viewpoint I won't stand for racism in any way or form, particularly from someone who holds as much credence as our No. 1 league caller David does," he said.
It's understood that Darwin-based Charlie King, the longest-serving indigenous broadcaster at the ABC, was particularly offended by the comments.
Last year, Morrow celebrated his 40th year of calling rugby league. During his long career with the ABC, he has also been a member of the Olympic and Commonwealth Games coverage since 1984, as well as one of the broadcaster's cricket commentators. He was awarded an OAM in 2005.
Morrow was uncontactable on Wednesday night.
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/sport/abc-suspends-announcer-over-racist-remarks-20130508-2j8ew.html#ixzz2ShyPbvRA
