IRFU Welcomes Government Decision to Allow Sport to Return from 29th June

The IRFU welcomes the government announcement which permits the return of sport from the 29th June.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the IRFU, the provinces and the clubs have illustrated their commitment to the safety of its players and volunteers.

The process of implementing the appropriate public health measures in our clubs has accelerated in recent weeks and we are committed to returning to rugby safely.

The IRFU in consultation with the provinces will assess the latest update from the Irish government and will communicate with clubs in due course.

In light of the announcement by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport of a funding package for the sports sector, Philip Browne, IRFU CEO said, “The IRFU welcome the government’s announcement of funding for the sport.  Since the closedown of the country in March Irish Rugby’s income has effectively fallen of a cliff and while we have moved quickly to significantly reduce our costs, huge financial pressure will remain our reality until we return to a time when we can welcome supporters back to full stadia across our professional game.

“Sport is far more than a pastime, it is an important economic driver for the national and local economy, it supports the physical and mental well-being of our people and it adds to the social and cultural fabric of each and every community in the country, ensuring that young and old can form the friendships, skills and values that we are known for across the world.  The funding available from government will be a lifeline to sports and the IRFU thank the Taoiseach and his government for standing with our sector in this time of crisis.”