Gunnedah Deputy Mayor faces criticism over comments on motherhood
Gunnedah's newly elected Deputy Mayor, Rob Hooke, has faced criticism following comments made during an ABC breakfast radio interview regarding former deputy mayor Kate McGrath. Hooke reportedly suggested that McGrath did not stand for re-election because, as a working mother, she could not dedicate the necessary time to support the mayor.
Kate McGrath issued a statement expressing deep disappointment, asserting that motherhood is not incompatible with public service and that her experience reflects the reality of many working mothers in leadership roles within the region.
Margot Davis, the mayor of Glen Innes, also criticized the remarks, labeling them “ridiculous and highly inappropriate” for a community leader. When questioned about the backlash, Cr Hooke denied making the comments and declined to provide further details.
Entities
Colleen Fuller · Gunnedah Shire Council · Kate McGrath · Margot Davis · Rob Hooke
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Cr Rob Hooke stated that former deputy mayor Kate McGrath did not stand for re-election because her responsibilities as a working mother prevented her from supporting the mayor. www.gleninnesexaminer.com.au · www.northerndailyleader.com.au · www.nvi.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] Cr Rob Hooke denied making the comments during a subsequent inquiry. www.gleninnesexaminer.com.au · www.northerndailyleader.com.au · www.nvi.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] Former deputy mayor Kate McGrath rejected the notion that motherhood is incompatible with community service. www.gleninnesexaminer.com.au · www.northerndailyleader.com.au · www.nvi.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] Glen Innes mayor Margot Davis described the comments as ridiculous and highly inappropriate. www.gleninnesexaminer.com.au · www.northerndailyleader.com.au · www.nvi.com.au