Conservative 2GB broadcaster Alan Jones has reprimanded ex-Wallabies star Israel Folau over his controversial comments linking the recent bushfires to abortion and same-sex marriage.
On Sunday, a video sermon surfaced which saw Folau claiming the current bushfires ravaging the Australian east coast are a sign of “God’s judgment”, linking the fires to Australia’s decriminalisation of same-sex marriage and abortions.
He said: “Look how rapid these bushfires, these droughts, all these things have come, in a short period of time. You think it’s a coincidence or not? God is speaking to you guys, Australia, you need to repent.”
Though historically Jones has supported Folau and his tug with Rugby Australia over his dismissal for anti-gay social media posts, the rugby player’s latest comments did not bode well with the radio presenter.
During his 2GB show this morning Jones said: “Israel is a lovely human being, I know him well. Israel, button up. Button up. These comments don’t help.”
Later on in the show, Jones added: “Someone’s got to say hang on, look, these are difficult times for people in bushfires and drought and so on and we’re not going to be in the business of making those sorts of comments which really are quite simply silly.”
Opposition leader Anthony Albanese even weighed in on the saga, telling Sky News on Monday that Folau’s comments were “reprehensible”.
He said: “It would be good if people thought before they spoke. These comments certainly won’t bring anything positive or constructive to the debate.”
