Thursday 17 August 2017

Senator Reynolds calls on the ARU to come clean on Western Force decision

WA Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds has called on Australian Rugby Union to come clean on details surrounding their decision to cull Western Force from the national competition.

Senator Reynolds said she shares the broad community outrage at the decision by ARU, in Western Australia, and across the nation.

“Australian Rugby Union must publically release information their board used to justify the decision to cut the Western Force, particularly the ‘big spreadsheet’ they claim demonstrates the decision was in the best interests of Australian Rugby,” she said.

“I also call on Australian Rugby Union to enter into an open dialogue with RugbyWA and any other interested party who can propose alternative solutions to the crisis that has resulted in this decision.

Senator Reynolds said she has also written to the Federal Minister for Sport, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP requesting Commonwealth support to have ARU release information regarding the discussion and open a dialogue with Rugby WA.

“In reviewing the case being made by RugbyWA and the Western Force, I am at a loss to understand ARU’s decision, particularly how they can justify removing a team with such a successful track record, strong financial support and a large and vibrant community of supporters.”

“There is no doubt the Western Force is one of Australia’s most successful rugby union team having the third largest playing base in Australia and 6 players in the 2017 Bledisloe Cup Wallaby Squad.”

Senator Reynolds said she is proud to stand with the sporting community in Western Australia in speaking out against this ridiculous decision and is optimistic in finding a way forward.

Media Contact: Amy Blom – 08 9477 5411 or amy.blom@aph.gov.au