IRFU Statement

The IRFU last night expressed disappointment in the manner in which Wanderers FC chose to issue a statement while in negotiations regarding the re-development of Lansdowne Road

…A view of the proposed new Satdium at Lansdowne Road…

The Irish Rugby Football Union is disappointed that Wanderers FC has chosen to issue a statement to the Media while in negotiations with the Union regarding the impending construction of the new stadium at Lansdowne Road, despite lengthy negotiations and the offer of a very generous compensation package.

The IRFU stress that agreement has already been amicably finalised with co-tenants Lansdowne FC.

The IRFU has been in discussions with Wanderers FC over a period of the last 14 months during which they have made a number of proposals designed to satisfy the needs of the Wanderers club within the new stadium.

The principal elements in the IRFU proposal to Wanderers FC comprises:

* A replacement, fully equipped clubhouse within the existing
Lansdowne Road grounds.

* Complimentary use of a Hospitality Suite for international rugby
matches throughout the lifespan of the new stadium.

* Financial compensation for loss of income to cover the period during
which the club will not have the use of Lansdowne Road because of its re-construction.

* An offer to provide financial grant to make improvements to
Wanderers’ Merrion Road clubhouse and grounds.

* An extension of licence agreement beyond 2017 at Lansdowne Road for
the life span of the new stadium.

Requests by Wanderers FC for a significant increase to their current allocation of international match tickets cannot be met as this would directly affect the allocation of tickets to other clubs in Ireland.

The IRFU is available at any time to continue negotiations with the Wanderers club and shares their view that issues can be resolved to the satisfaction of all parties.