Munster begin independent governance review after Roger Randle controversy

REVIEW UNDERWAY: Munster Rugby has revealed the parameters of the Independent Governance and Organisational Review it has commissioned in the wake of its handling of the Roger Randle contract controversy. Pic: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images.

Munster Rugby has revealed the parameters of the Independent Governance and Organisational Review it has commissioned in the wake of its handling of the Roger Randle contract controversy.

Munster were forced to abandon their intention to appoint Chiefs assistant Randle as their new attack coach for next season 15 days after announcing the former New Zealand international wing as their replacement for departing senior coach Mike Prendergast.

The hiring was met with a social media outcry after reports of an historic rape allegation against Randle, for which he has consistently claimed his innocence, resurfaced.

Within the Munster Rugby organisation, the manner of Randle’s was also met with resignations from its Professional Games Committee by three independent members, former players Billy Holland, Killian Keane and Mick O’Driscoll, with reports that the signing had been presented to them as a done deal by chief executive Ian Flanagan, general manager Ian Costello and head coach Clayton McMillan, rather than going through the usual process of consultation with the PGC before a player or coach is brought into the province.

The backlash against both the hiring and subsequent handling of the Randle affair also led to withdrawals from members of Munster’s informal and voluntary Commercial Advisory Group of business leaders and stakeholders, at a time when the province has also undertaken a round of voluntary redundancies, which must now become compulsory in order to make the savings required in a time of economic constraints.

All of which has led to a statement issued on Tuesday morning confirming the Independent Governance and Organisational Review, though there were no indications were given of the timeline for the review to be conducted and delivered.

“The purpose of the review is to assess the organisation’s governance, leadership, culture and communications structures and to provide recommendations back to the Board,” the Munster Rugby statement said.

“The review will be conducted by The Governance Company, an independent consultancy specialising in corporate governance, and will be led by David Duffy. The review will be overseen by an external independent Chair, who will be appointed in the coming days.” The Munster communication also featured the first public statement from CEO Flanagan since Randle was initially announced as attack coach on April 15.

Flanagan said: “It is clear that the past number of weeks have been difficult for staff, players, coaches, supporters, and everyone who cares about Munster Rugby.

“We recognise the impact that recent events and decisions have had on our stakeholders. This independent review is an important step in ensuring we can learn from past events and strengthen how we can positively operate going forward.

“We look forward to working fully with The Governance Company and independent Chair to support an effective review process. The primary and clear objective of this important exercise is the overall wellbeing of Munster Rugby.” Munster Rugby Board chair Ger Malone said: “The Board is fully committed to ensuring that Munster Rugby upholds the highest standards of governance across the organisation. Commissioning this independent review is an important part of that commitment.

“We are determined to ensure that our governance and organisational arrangements support clear, robust and accountable decision-making.”