The press release read, Pending the receipt of a submission from the Irish Rugby Union Players' Association (IRUPA) and taking account of anticipated proposals to be made by the Connacht Branch, the scheduled Committee meeting of the IRFU on Thursday next, January 23rd, 2003, has been postponed.

So as to provide proper time to evaluate that and all other options, the Union's debate is now likely to take place at its scheduled meeting on February 7t

A meeting is scheduled to take place between the Irish Rugby Union Players' Association and IRFU representatives, following which the IRUPA proposals will be circulated to the members of the IRFU Committee. Similarly, the Connacht Branch is to be requested to forward its proposals in advance so that the Union Committee is given sufficient time to evaluate them properly also.

The IRFU's over riding concern is to ensure that the correct decisions relating to its current difficulties are made for all of Irish rugby, including the professional game, the players and the clubs and schools game. To this end, the Union has consistently indicated, including to the Connacht Branch and IRUPA, that it welcomes all initiatives relating to solving the shared challenges facing Irish rugby.