THREE of the four Welsh Rugby regions have spoken out against the allegations of discrimination and misogyny made against the WRU.
Cardiff Rugby said it was ‘distressed’ and ‘appalled’ at the allegations made in a BBC Wales documentary.
Scarlets and Dragons also issued statements in which they said ‘misogyny or discrimination’ must be driven out.
The WRU’s main sponsor Principality Building Society has also responded to a tweet on the matter, saying: “We take great pride in supporting grassroots rugby within the diverse communities we serve, as we have for over 20 years. We want to work with partners who share our values.
“The allegations in the emerging BBC investigation are extremely concerning and we would expect the WRU to take the immediate and decisive action required to remove any discriminatory and bullying behaviours and to uphold the inclusive values that we should all live by.”
The WRU has said in a statement: “We take any allegations from our staff seriously, in particular regarding the behaviour, attitudes and language described in the programme. If any allegations are substantiated, we will act very swiftly as such behaviour has no place in the WRU or Welsh rugby.”
There has also been calls for WRU Chief Executive Steve Phillips to step down
Scarlets and Dragons released similar statements which read: “The BBC Wales investigation into allegations of discrimination and misogyny at the Welsh Rugby Union is a reminder for everyone involved in rugby that our game has to drive out misogyny or discrimination of any kind.
“The allegations are for others to consider but the Scarlets (and Dragons) wish to reaffirm our commitment to making rugby a safe and fair place for everyone.”
Cardiff Rugby said in a statement: “We are distressed and appalled by allegations of discrimination and misogyny at the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), revealed by a BBC Wales investigation, which broadcast on Monday evening (Jan 23).
“There is no place in sport, or indeed anywhere in society, for discrimination of any kind and Cardiff Rugby condemn the reported culture within our national governing body.
“We acknowledge and support the calls previously made by WRU chair Ieuan Evans to evolve the governance of the organisation to ensure the board are “truly representative” and “skills-based”. The board of Cardiff Rugby now unanimously call upon the WRU and its board to implement this with immediate effect.
“We all have a responsibility to affect positive change and Cardiff Rugby will not tolerate any kind of discrimination.
“We reaffirm our own commitment to ensuring rugby is a game for all people, of all backgrounds, genders, abilities and beliefs and we continue to strive to make rugby a safe, inclusive and fair place for all.”
