Motion NDM6990 Andrew R.T. Davies, Bethan Sayed, Huw Irranca-Davies

Supported by: Dai Lloyd, David Rees, Hefin David, Janet Finch-Saunders, Jayne Bryant, Lynne Neagle, Llyr Gruffydd, Mike Hedges, Mohammad Asghar, Suzy Davies

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

 1. Notes:

a) the importance of rugby to the people of Wales, the economic benefits the game delivers, and its special place in the fabric of communities across our nation;

b) the financial and structural challenges currently facing rugby in Wales;

c) the potential ramifications of the Welsh Rugby Union’s ‘Project Reset’ on professional rugby and the regional structure in Wales, and on the additional community and grassroots services the regions currently provide; and

d) the strong concerns voiced by fans regarding a potential merger of the Ospreys and Scarlets’ regions.

2. Calls on the Welsh Government to work with the Welsh Rugby Union and regional/club partners to protect rugby in Wales and develop a sustainable long-term model for the game at a regional and grassroots level.