Province to host PNGRU official to discuss strategies

By ROBINSON LEKA
NEW Ireland Rugby Union says it will host a Papua New Guinea Rugby Union (PNGRU) official this weekend to discuss the province’s strategic plan for the sport.
Provincial union chief executive Charlie Melachon told The National yesterday that they would hold a workshop and seminar with PNGRU national development officer Ian Liveras.
“We will be having the workshop to discuss our eligibility criteria for our associations that will attend the PNGRU annual general meeting in August,” he said.
“We also need to look at what has happened in the sport over the last 30 years and what needs to be done in New Ireland. “We need all our stakeholders to know what their roles are under PNGRU and their affiliation to Oceania Rugby and World Rugby.
“Knowing the big picture is important in terms of good governance and best practice.
“It will help in managing the affairs of PNGRU and provincial unions so that the safety and welfare of all stakeholders, including players, is maximised.”
Melachon said rugby union in the province was a partner of rugby league with both codes adopting the governance and management framework of PNG Rugby Football League’s “New Ireland Model”.
“This will be a way forward for New Ireland Rugby Football League and New Ireland Rugby Union Incorporated,” Melachon said.
Meanwhile, he said plans were underway for the province to host a few sevens rugby union tournaments in honour of PNG legend and former national sevens coach, the late Douglas Guise.