Clubs set to challenge IRFU plan for return to provincial leagues

TOP Irish rugby clubs are likely to challenge an IRFU decision yesterday to return to provincial leagues before the implementation of a national structure from season 2005-2006.

Cork Constitution director of coaching Paul Derham last night reacted angrily to an IRFU edict that stated: “The competition model will be based on the operation of strong provincial leagues which will lead to the formation of a division one, two and three AIB league structure on an annual basis.”

But Derham blasted: “Just what do they think they are trying to do. I’m absolutely appalled by this decision even though I don’t have the full facts. It appears national club rugby will now be competing directly, at the second stage of the season, with the provinces in the Celtic League and Heineken Cup and, of course, with the international team.

“If that’s the case I don’t think it will be possible for the likes of ourselves, Shannon and Garryowen, who provide, for instance, the bulk of the Munster team, to keep on producing the players.

“That will mean the provinces will have to buy in more players and that can’t be good for the game in this country,” said Derham.

The IRFU statement said the decision was based on the necessity for a high-level competitive structure while at the same time recognising the evolving trends of the club game in Ireland. “In reaching this decision, the Union committee took cognisance of extensive feedback through the consultative strategic process and the clubs themselves.

“The existing AIB League structure remains in place as previously agreed with the clubs until the end of season 2004-2005. It is proposed that a media briefing will be held shortly,” it said.

The three options open to the IRFU yesterday were: 1) Retain the current three division structure; 2) keep a premier national league and dilute divisions two and three in favour of provincial leagues with national play-offs, or 3) to disband the All Ireland League in its current format and revert to provincial leagues early in the season with a play-off structure in the second part.

Clubs throughout the country, particularly those in the top division, favoured the second option.

Prior to the decision, a first division source said yesterday: “We have worked very hard to solve the problems within the Irish club game. The clubs have had several meetings and not everyone agreed on the way forward all the time.

“I do think, however, that we’ve got to have a vibrant club scene even if that involves a limited number of teams. Players have got to be given the opportunity to make the grade out of school and gain experience at club level before moving on.

“The clubs have to be compensated as well but I think there is a viable solution to what is a serious problem.

A move back to provincial competition would be a total disaster because the whole of it would be lopsided.”