JSG Cymru WRU Minutes February 2024
MEETING MINUTES
Date: 20th February 2024
Time: 18:30-19:45
Location: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
Attendees:
Abi Tierney (WRU)
Nigel Walker (WRU)
Malcolm Wall (WRU)
Barrie Jones (Crys 16)
Gareth Storey (Crys 16)
Sarah Collins-Davies (Ospreys Supporters Club)
Cathy Green (Ospreys Supporters Club)
Lynn Glaister (CF10)
Dann Hallett (Dragons Official Supporters Club)
1. Introductions and Previous Communications
Following introductions, Barrie Jones commenced the meeting by congratulating Abi Tierney in both
Welsh and English on her recent appointment as Chief Executive Officer of the WRU. Abi expressed her
gratitude and conveyed her eagerness to collaborate with everyone present. She emphasised the open
nature of the conversation but acknowledged the requirement to document the proceedings. Lynn
Glaister provided a brief overview of the agenda, including discussions on the independent review,
strategy, finance, Judgement Day, and women’s rugby.
2. Independent Review
Abi Tierney addressed the attendees regarding the independent review published in November. She
emphasised the importance of implementing the recommendations effectively and transparently.
Cathy Green raised a query about including a supporter representative on the review panel.
Abi explained the panel’s composition and assured regular updates to stakeholders. The conversation
also touched on past interactions between JSG Cymru and the WRU and the need for transparent and
constructive engagement going forward.
3. Strategy
Abi Tierney outlined the ongoing process of developing a new strategy for Welsh rugby, incorporating
inputs from various stakeholders. She discussed the need for broad engagement and feedback
mechanisms, requesting a SWOT analysis from supporter groups.
The supporter groups gave an overview of their membership structures and communication mechanisms
with their associated memberships and clubs.
Nigel Walker and Malcolm Wall emphasised the strategy’s comprehensive nature, encompassing both
professional and community rugby. The discussion extended to pathways for young players and the
balance between sustaining the game financially and nurturing talent.
4. Finances
JSG questioned how the Parkgate Hotel was performing in terms of revenue generation.
Abi Tierney noted that after a difficult start, the Parkgate Hotel was now delivering. Abi went on to
provide insights into the financial challenges faced by the WRU, including debt repayment and revenue
generation. The conversation revolved around restructuring debts, diversifying revenue streams, and the
impact of events like the European finals on regional clubs.
Malcolm Wall highlighted the significance of the Principality Stadium as a revenue-generating asset and
discussed strategies for financial sustainability.
5. Judgement Day
Barrie Jones raised the issue of seating arrangements at Judgement Day to enhance the spectator
experience.
Malcolm Wall assured plans for facilitating block seating and Nigel Walker confirmed the event’s return to
the Principality Stadium in the following season.
6. Women’s Rugby
Discussions centred on integrating women’s rugby with regional clubs, pathways for female players, and
promotional efforts for women’s competitions.
Nigel Walker and Abi Tierney emphasised the need for a clear strategy to develop women’s rugby at the
right pace whilst addressing infrastructure challenges.
7. Welsh Language
Barrie Jones highlighted the importance of Welsh language representation within the WRU, suggesting
updates to the organisation’s Welsh language website.
8. Any Other Business (AOB)
Gareth Storey expressed gratitude to Abi Tierney for her time, and Abi extended her willingness to
engage further with the supporter groups.
NEXT MEETING
April 2024 (specific date to be advised).
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