Israel Folau meets rugby bosses to discuss ‘anti-gay’ post

WALLABIES star Israel Folau gave no commitment to change his social media use in a meeting with rugby bosses in Sydney.

Israel Folau has revived the debate around the right to speak freely. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

ISRAEL Folau has admitted he could have conveyed his religious views on gay people in a more positive way, according to Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle.

But the Wallabies superstar has not yet given a commitment to change his social media use to fall into line with RA policy.

Folau met with Castle and NSW Waratahs boss Andrew Hore on Tuesday to discuss the fallout from Folau’s controversial Instagram post about gay people.

Castle described the talks as very open, calm and honest but just the start of a process, with no outcome decided and the parties to meet again. Castle said Folau won’t be asked to compromise his beliefs.

“We’re proud of the fact that he’s a strong believer and he’s prepared to stand up for what he believes in,” Castle told reporters in Sydney on Tuesday. “We want athletes in our code who are prepared to do that and that’s really important.

“But at the same time, Rugby Australia’s got a policy and position of inclusion and using social media with respect.

“So that’s where we shared stories, shared ideas and shared positions and both of us recognise that what we want is a situation where we use our social media platforms in a respectful and positive way.”

Folau will re-consider his use of social media as the dialogue continues, Castle said, and he did not intend to be disrespectful.

He caused an uproar when he said last week gay people were destined for hell “unless they repent of their sins and turn to God”.

Israel Folau's controversial comment on Instagram about gays.

That followed the firestorm generated by his support last year for the ‘No’ campaign during same-sex marriage plebiscite voting.

“Even Israel acknowledged that maybe he could have put a positive spin on that same message and done it in a less disrespectful way,” Castle said. “He certainly understands that he has caused some people some grief through this process.”

Code-hopper Folau comes off contract at the end of this year, with the former NRL star and AFL player yet to announce his intentions for 2019 and Castle reiterated RA’s desire to retain him.

His wife Maria is currently representing New Zealand in netball at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

— AAP