PNG close to becoming full member

THE Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League have complied with the International Rugby League’s (IRL) provisions for full membership last year, chief executive officer Stanley Hondina says.
He said the PNGRFL were pleased to meet IRL’s compliance obligations after an audit last year.
“Our game is ever growing and as we continue to raise and set standards domestically, it is important that we stay abreast of the governance requirements and practices, on the international front. Meeting the success of this audit is a milestone for our organisation,” Hondina said.
“These are standards that we hold ourselves against at the PNGRFL level.
“We are aware of our journey, and that there are key areas that we will continue to work on improving as we keep progressing and will work closely with the IRL in ensuring these areas are addressed this year and going forward.”
Asia Pacific Rugby League chief operating officer Jeremy Edwards said in correspondence with the PNGRFL, “Asia Pacific Rugby League Confederation continues to work closely with both the International Rugby League and our members to ensure governance is universally implemented and standards are continually improved.
“(The audit) is to improve governance at all levels. Part of this process is the annual membership audit, which member organisations and the international and regional federations can use as a gauge of progress from year to year.
“The audit is also a gauge of members’ continuing adherence to the minimum standards for each category of membership.
“The PNGRFL is a leader in Asia Pacific and a nation with many years of rugby league tradition and a role model for other nations.”
Asia Pacific Rugby League Confederation is one of three global confederations that combine to form the IRL.