Munster commission independent review after 'difficult' period

Munster have announced that they have commissioned an independent governance and organisational review of the club after what CEO Ian Flanagan has described as a “difficult” number of weeks.

The review will be conducted by The Governance Company, led by David Duffy, and will “assess the organisation’s governance, leadership, culture and communications structures and to provide recommendations back to the Board,” according to a Munster statement. An external independent Chair, who is yet to be appointed, will oversee the review.

It comes after a turbulent season off the field for Munster, marred by the appointment of former All Black Roger Randle as attack coach, followed by the U-turn of the decision after a backlash over a previous rape allegation.

On top of that, the club have recently announced compulsory redundancies for staff members.

On the field, after a promising start to the season, the province not only failed to qualify for the knockout stages of the Investec Champions Cup, but need to beat the Lions at Thomond Park on Saturday in the final round of the regular United Rugby Championship season to ensure their place in the play-offs.

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Chair of the Munster Rugby Board, Ger Malone, said: “The Board is fully committed to ensuring that Munster Rugby upholds the highest standards of governance across the organisation. Commissioning this independent review is an important part of that commitment.

“We are determined to ensure that our governance and organisational arrangements support clear, robust and accountable decision-making.”

CEO Flanagan added: “It is clear that the past number of weeks have been difficult for staff, players, coaches, supporters, and everyone who cares about Munster Rugby.

“We recognise the impact that recent events and decisions have had on our stakeholders. This independent review is an important step in ensuring we can learn from past events and strengthen how we can positively operate going forward.

“We look forward to working fully with The Governance Company and independent Chair to support an effective review process. The primary and clear objective of this important exercise is the overall wellbeing of Munster Rugby.”