Welsh Rugby Union chair Richard Collier-Keywood has responded to a letter from Delyth Jewell MS, which was issued publicly after he joined the Senedd’s sport and culture committee discussions last month.
Welsh rugby’s first independently appointed chair was invited alongside fellow independent director Alison Thorne and WRU Community Rugby Director Geraint John to meet a group of politicians for the latest in a line of regular scheduled meetings designed to maintain engagement between the two bodies.
Collier-Keywood joined by video link with Thorne and John both in attendance at the session in the Bay which lasted over an hour.
The full letter is detailed below but, in summary, it welcomes the opportunity to speak at the Committee evidence session as ‘a valuable opportunity to explain further why change is necessary.’
It also points out that: “Welsh rugby is at a crossroads. We have laid the foundations for a sustainable future through consultation, analysis and improved finances. Change is difficult, but essential for the long-term success and health of the game. We are taking difficult decisions but acting responsibly to protect the community game, invest in pathways and deliver increased success across all aspects of the men’s and women’s elite game.”
Before signing off the WRU chair’s letter explains where significant progress has been made in the game in Wales and details where new investment is needed and where it will be directed.
It explains that the recent consultation, contrary to the assertion in the Senedd’s letter, produced an overriding consensus for change and assures all that the WRU’s leadership remains confident the strategy shaped by its extensive consultation is one that will safeguard the future of the game.
Finally the letter concludes: “Rebuilding trust across Welsh rugby is a priority for us… We respect the deep sense of ownership and pride that people throughout Wales feel in our game, but change is difficult and disruption is unavoidable if we are to achieve our aims.”
The full letter can be read below.