CBS statement on Don Imus firing

NEW YORK, April 12 (UPI) -- Below is CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves' statement announcing the firing of U.S. radio host Don Imus for remarks on the Rutgers women's basketball team:

"From the outset, I believe all of us have been deeply upset and revulsed by the statements that were made on our air about the young women who represented Rutgers University in the NCAA Women's Basketball Championship with such class, energy and talent.

"Those who have spoken with us the last few days represent people of goodwill from all segments of our society -- all races, economic groups, men and women alike. In our meetings with concerned groups, there has been much discussion of the effect language like this has on our young people, particularly young women of color trying to make their way in this society.

That consideration has weighed most heavily on our minds as we made our decision, as have the many e-mails, phone calls and personal discussions we have had with our colleagues across the CBS Corp. and our many other constituencies.

"I want to thank all those who came to see us to express their views. We are now presented with a significant opportunity to expand on our record on issues of diversity, race and gender. We intend to seize that opportunity as we move forward together."