The uncertain future of the Heineken Cup is a significant risk to the IRFU’s financial health, the union’s Annual Council meeting was told last night.

A MEETING of an IRFU disciplinary panel in Dublin last night sat for about three hours before reducing the six-week ban imposed last week on Munster prop John Hayes by seven days.

LEINSTER back row Shane Jennings has been cited for “contact with the eye/eye area” of opponent Nick Kennedy in his side’s defeat last Friday at the hands of London Irish in the RDS – but the Premiership side’s captain, Bob Casey, has weakened the case against Jennings, admitting yesterday that Kennedy “overreacted” to the incident.

John Hayes' appeal against his six-week suspension will be heard tomorrow, the IRFU have said.

Leinster have failed to in its appeal against Jonathan Sexton's two-week suspension for a kick at Lifeimi Mafi.

Leinster have launched an appeal against the two-week suspension issued to Jonathan Sexton for kicking out at Munster's Lifeimi Mafi in the Magner's League match at Thomond Park last Saturday.

GALWAY legal firm William B Glynn solicitors has been acquired by Ronan Daly Jermyn (RDJ) in a €3 million merger which propels the Cork firm into the top 10 legal firms in the country.