“I can confirm the WRU will be signing the necessary release forms to enable Gareth Thomas to join Toulouse,” said Pickering.
“We are taking a mature stance on this issue and we have taken into consideration Gareth’s welfare.
“We are signing the agreement to enable him to continue his illustrious career, rather than stymie his chances of playing in the future.
“It was never our intention to treat Gareth as a pawn in this commercial dispute. He is a very fine player who has always been a wonderful ambassador for Welsh Rugby both on and off the field.
“However, there is still a dispute over the terms of his contract to be resolved. We have a very good relationship with the FFR (French Rugby Federation) and will be working with them to settle the matter with Toulouse.”
