IRB will not interfere in FRU/Commerce Commission matter

The International Rugby Board has today stated that the specific issue raised by the government relating to the Fiji Rugby Union lottery is entirely a matter between the Commerce Commission and the FRU and does not require IRB intervention.

However the IRB said should any evidence of maladministration be brought to the attention of the IRB then it will be investigated.

The International Rugby Board also highlighted that despite media speculation, government or third party body intervention in the management or governance of a union may constitute a breach of IRB bye laws which enshrined the autonomy of member unions.

It stated that as long as a member union is working within its constitution, IRB bye laws and national law, there should be no government intervention justifiable and the IRB is satisfied that the FRU is currently operating within its governing documents.

The IRB said it is committed to supporting the Fiji Rugby Union in developing all aspects of the game in the country and is satisfied that the IRB's investment in the union is adequately managed and meets it's thorough reporting and auditing standards, and managed in accordance with the FRU constitution.

Between 2009 and 2012, over $7.6 million will be invested by the IRB in High Performance programmes and development grants for the FRU aimed at increasing playing standards.

The IRB said it is also delighted to hear that the Fiji government has publicly pledged $3M funding to the Fiji Rugby Union for its 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign.


Story by: Vijay Narayan