Pivac and WRU chiefs lead from front with pay cuts

WALES coach Wayne Pivac and Welsh rugby’s top brass will take a 25 per cent pay cut as the WRU tackles the financial crisis caused by the current coronavirus pandemic.

And the Welsh Rugby Union remains in talks with the regions and the Welsh Rugby Players Association about wage cuts for the country’s regional stars, who are earning above a certain threshold.

There had been four big events, starting with Judgement Day, due to have been staged at the Principality Stadium between now and the end of July.

But they have been put on the back burner, denying the union vital income, with the stadium having been handed over to the NHS to become a temporary hospital during the medical emergency caused by the spread of the virus Covid-19.

It has forced the WRU to introduce measures in an effort to cut costs, with Pivac and chief executive Martyn Phillips among those taking a quarter drop in their salary. The WRU took the decision after analysing in-depth reviews of potential ‘return to rugby’ dates.

The first part of the plan, the reduction of outgoings and a review of ongoing projects, has already delivered cash savings for the WRU.

Phase two means from April 1, Pivac and other senior rugby staff and WRU executives will receive reduced wages. Depending upon the needs of the business, other staff will take pay cuts of either 10 or 25 per cent with the difference accounted for by the extent to which roles are directly related to professional rugby.

Furloughing, in accordance with the government’s Job Retention Scheme, will be implemented where applicable until the end of May.

“I have been struck by the efforts and attitude of all WRU staff during this crisis,” said Phillips.

“As businesses across the country are faced with similar difficult decisions, adopting this new policy was made all the more challenging as everywhere you look, everyone at the WRU has rolled up their sleeves and adapted.

“However, we have taken these steps to aim to safeguard jobs and protect the medium and long term health of the game in Wales. We remain focused on our goal to come out of the other side of this crisis.

“We are continuing our constructive dialogue with the WRPA and the regions.

“This includes an exchange of information with the WRPA, particularly around the complex financials involved, so that all parties can come to an informed decision.

“We are working as quickly and efficiently as possible to bring all of this to a conclusion.”

Elsewhere, operational staff at the Principality Stadium have been offered the opportunity to continue in full-time work, supporting NHS staff as the national ground is transformed into a fully-functional field hospital.

“The speed and efficiency with which our stadium is being transformed into a hospital is just one example of the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Phillips.

“I know there will be hardship to endure, but equally I know that all our staff have the very best interests of Welsh rugby and the wider community in Wales at heart and that we will get through these tough times together.”