14 March 2002 Media Statement

Trevor Mallard comment on Rugby World Cup

“I went to Australia yesterday for meetings regarding the Rugby World Cup.

“I met with IRB Chairman Vernon Pugh and I had a telephone call with Australian Federal Minister Rod Kemp.

“The meeting with Vernon Pugh went well.

“I thought it was useful to go to Australia because of the importance to New Zealand of hosting some World Cup Games.

“The two main purposes of meeting Mr Pugh were:

“To give the IRB a whole of New Zealand perspective on what hosting the Rugby World Cup means to New Zealand.

“To deliver legal advice provided by the Solicitor-General that shows the legal difficulties the NZRFU would have in total compliance with Rugby World Cup conditions.

“I believe Mr Pugh gave me a good hearing and that our concerns will be taken into account when the IRB makes its decision next month.

“In return, Mr Pugh was able to assure me that the door is still open for New Zealand to sub-host the event. The New Zealand Rugby Union’s belief that no decision has been made is correct.

“This morning, I was able to pass that information on to the New Zealand Rugby Union.

“I will not be closely involved in the Rugby Union’s process from now on. But I think it was important to support them in the way I did. I am sure the whole country will be supportive of them as they seek to secure New Zealand’s sub hosting rights,” Trevor Mallard said.

ENDS

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