Wrexham MP quizzes WRU on controversial Welsh Rugby Union proposals
At the Welsh Affairs Select Committee last week, Andrew Ranger MP and the cross-party group of MPs received evidence from the Welsh Rugby Union and fan representatives about the future of rugby union in Wales. The committee heard form Abi Tierney, the CEO of the WRU and Richard Collier-Keywood the Chair of the WRU. In the second session fan representatives from four Welsh regions shared their views on the WRU’s proposals and the consultations they had undertaken. Jason Fletcher from Wrexham Rugby Club attended the evidence session to hear for himself the responses given to MP questions.
In a wide-ranging session, where the committee had received significant communication from fans, players and clubs, MPs explored the WRU’s proposals for reform of rugby in Wales. These include the professional game and the future of the 4 regions, performance centres, new rugby engagement officers and the efforts that have been made to secure the WRU’s financial future.
The WRU acknowledged that rugby in North Wales had been underfunded, with MPs emphasising that rugby is the national game of the whole of Wales, not just part of it. Abi Tierney explained that the WRU would be in North Wales in March to discuss investment with the clubs. Andrew Ranger MP further questioned the WRU’s One Wales Strategy and how it was nuanced to areas of North Wales with different populations and reach such as Bala and Wrexham.
Communication is clearly an issue for the WRU, with MPs imploring them to improve their communication strategy and the way that they bring stakeholders and supporters with them. Andrew Ranger also asked for clarity on the future of free to air broadcasting for the 6 Nations which is so important as the “shop window” for the Welsh game as well as for reaching audiences.
In the second part of the session the fan representatives spoke passionately about the history of their regions and their fears about which region will no longer exist with WRU plans to reduce 4 regions to 3. The idea of an Anglo-Welsh League was universally popular across all 4 regions with the current United Rugby Championship accessibility, particularly in terms of away matches in South Africa or Italy posing issues at a time where rugby union audiences are dropping.
Andrew Ranger MP commented,
“It was important for me that the voice of grassroots rugby was heard loud and clear by the WRU. I was delighted that Jason was able to attend the session and I will continue to work with Wrexham Rugby club to ensure that these WRU proposals work for local clubs as well as the national game. Investment is needed, particularly in artificial pitches so that rugby can build and grow in our area, and we will be looking for WRU support with that.”
Jason Fletcher from Wrexham Rugby Club added,
“‘It was interesting to see what a financial challenge the WRU has on its plate. Many of the decisions the WRU now have to make will be difficult and likely unpopular. That said, with a third of the population of Wales in North Wales, we do feel there is a huge opportunity to grow the game, but that can only come with meaningful investment. We look forward to seeing what the WRU will bring to North Wales, Rygbi Gogledd Cymru and Clwb Rygbi Wrecsam in the near future. I’d also like to thank Andrew for engaging with the club and highlighting some of the issues facing community rugby in North Wales.”
