IRFU issue statement on future of rugby in Ireland

The Irish Rugby Football Union outlined the importance of a Strategic Planning Process to the future of rugby in Ireland.

The statement from the IRFU said:

‘The IRFU commenced a Strategic Planning process in August 2002, which has yet to be completed. The IRFU Officers will be recommending to the Union Committee that on the completion of this process a draft Strategic Plan will be produced and there will be consultation with all the stakeholders of Irish rugby.’

‘Following this, decisions will be taken as to the future structure of domestic club rugby and professional rugby in Ireland and in the meantime the process of contracting players will continue as heretofore in all Provinces.’

Don Crowley, President, IRFU said:

“The Strategic Planning process which we have not had the opportunity of completing , is the most appropriate vehicle for addressing the various issues that face our game and the IRFU looks forward to positive input to this process from all sectors in the game.”