Welsh Rugby Union chairman Gareth Davies has told member clubs they face a “pivotal moment” in the running of the game.
Davies has written to the 320 clubs and districts of the Union, urging them to back his proposals for reform which go before the AGM next month.
If the plans are passed on October 14, they will usher in a new system of slimmed-down governance with the WRU board reduced in size from 20 to 12 directors.
There would be a WRU council alongside a new professional game board and a community game board.
The new WRU board would consist of the chair of the community game board – one of the club representatives elected onto the WRU council – a further seven council members, all elected onto the council by clubs, three appointed independent directors (including the chair of the professional game board) and the group chief executive.
If the clubs vote the plans through, the new structure is expected to be in place following the end of the 2019 Six Nations Championship. But to be successful the Union require a 75 per cent majority.
“This is a pivotal moment for Welsh Rugby,” said Davies, in his letter to clubs.
“The WRU Board believes that the Governance changes will improve the WRU and provide a governance structure that is modern and fit for purpose.
“These changes will also enable us to better improve diversity within our governance, better representing the interests of everyone involved in our game.
“The key is that the WRU Board is able to take agile decisions and has a broad range of skill sets and experiences, whilst retaining a link to its membership.
“There is only one Special Resolution proposed, so the Governance changes will either be approved (in which case they will be implemented) or they will be rejected (in which case they will not take effect).”
To assist members to consider the proposed governance changes, Davies has enclosed an extensive briefing document which provides a detailed explanation of what the WRU is proposing and outlines the changes that will be made to its Articles of Association if the proposal is approved.
“The right people, with the appropriate experience and skills, will be empowered to make decisions for the greater good of Welsh rugby,” the document explains.
“The Board also believes that the proposed structure will protect the vital link to the member clubs and it is felt these changes are necessary to protect the position of Welsh rugby within the global sporting landscape.”