 Llanelli want a five-club structure for next season |
Plans for a proposed four regional structure in Welsh club rugby have been thrown into chaos by Llanelli Rugby Club. The Scarlets are seeking a High Court injunction to prevent the game's governing body from imposing its proposed structure for next season.
They are opposed to any plans for a reduction to four teams playing in European and Celtic competitions, saying they want five with Llanelli standing alone.
Llanelli believe the 10-year loyalty agreement they signed with the Welsh Rugby Union in 1997, which gives them the privilege of being in the highest position in the Welsh club hierarchy, is legally binding.
The Welsh Rugby Union has until 2 April to present a plan to European rugby's governing body (ERC) which has the backing of all Welsh clubs.
But a solicitor acting for Llanelli, Stephen Hornsby, said he expects a hearing will not take place for a couple of weeks, which puts the April deadline for a decision in serious doubt.
"The WRU knows this proposal is not viable," said Llanelli chief executive Stuart Gallacher.
 We take our legal and moral obligations seriously Llanelli chief executive Stuart Gallacher |
"It admits to blockages with the ERC and broadcasters. And we, along with other clubs, have made clear our intention to take legal action if they persisted." The 239 member clubs of the WRU voted overwhelmingly for a switch to a provincial-style structure at the recent EGM in Port Talbot.
But the ERC say they will not sanction any plan which does not have the unanimous support of all the top clubs in Wales.
Cardiff and Pontypridd joined Llanelli in opposing the regional proposal at the EGM.
Gallacher added: "The four-team regional plan would put Llanelli RFC out of business and we will not allow that to happen.
"We have a duty - not to mention contractual obligations - to our players, staff and suppliers and to our members, shareholders and supporters.
"And, unlike the WRU, we take our legal and moral obligations seriously."
The WRU group chief executive, David Moffett, said: "In response to Llanelli Rugby Club's action in seeking a High Court injunction against the planned restructuring of the professional game in Wales, the Welsh Rugby Union has referred the matter to its lawyers.
"The legal process will now take its course and it would be inappropriate to make any further comment."
The next meeting between the nine Premier clubs and the WRU is scheduled for Friday.
MMIX
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