Welsh rugby crisis: WRU bosses determined to carry on
One of the sticking points is the WRU seeking to take stakes in four professional teams while the governing body prepares to take on the Welsh Government’s Covid loan debt.
The initial total was £20m, with Cardiff, Dragons, Scarlets and Ospreys initially bearing repayment responsibility.
Regional fans are concerned about the WRU’s direct involvement in each team’s business and fear the governing body will seek further control.
Tierney publicly confirmed that the WRU was seeking some official input into the areas but said her organization was not trying to take over.
“That’s one of the reasons for clubs to be cautious during this process,” Tierney said.
“The interest we are seeking to collaborate is in terms of squad composition, playing time and set-up.
“This is not a takeover or a move to an Irish model. We need to work together on a system that will give us the results we need and benefit regional clubs and the national team.”
Tierney dismissed the headlines’ claims, saying it would be the equivalent of Gatland managing the club.
“It is important that these four clubs remain independent and have entrepreneurial capabilities.
“Hopefully fans will understand what this means in practice and won’t worry about the WRU.”
Tierney said next season’s regional budget will gradually increase from this season’s £4.5 million, with teams spending around £6.50 a season in three years’ time.
The chief executive also reiterated the WRU’s commitment to retaining four professional teams in Wales and was not currently considering the prospect of an Anglo-Welsh league, saying English clubs had voted against the proposal.
