Former The Voice Of Ireland judge Jamelia has certainly ruffled a few feathers – by saying that fat people shouldn’t be able to buy clothing on the High Street.

The singer appeared on Loose Women – where she is a regular panellist – on Tuesday afternoon and debated the issue of overweight teenagers.

“I am all for celebrating people for who they are – everyone has the right to be comfortable in their own skin,” she said live on air, before adding: “I think everyone should have access to lovely clothes but I do not think it’s right to facilitate people living an unhealthy lifestyle.”

She also stated: “In high-street stores you’re catering for the average woman; there’s a healthy [weight] range, and I don’t believe they should be providing clothes for below that range or above that range.

The 34-year-old mother-of-two concluded: “Yes have specialist shops, but you should feel uncomfortable if you’re unhealthy.”

Understandably, her comments quickly proved divisive, with viewers taking to social media to air their own opinions on the matter. One Twitter user was outraged, stating: “Disgusted and personally offended by what #jamelia said about plus size women. It’s just as bad as #racism and #homophobia”. Another Tweeted directly at the star, asking: “Really?? I am sorry should us larger people walk round in binbags to make you feel better. #disgusting”.

However, others seemed more sympathetic. “Kind of agree with the Jamelia thing, but only as part of a wider cultural change and education about health. Being size 22 isn't good,” said one supporter.

Jamelia, who appeared on the Loose Women episode wearing a dress from Marks & Spencer’s Per Una Speziale range and Rosa Red earrings, left her stint on RTE’s The Voice a year ago and was later replaced by current judge Una Foden of The Saturdays.