PARAIC DUFFY is open to the idea of Ireland hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup – and says the GAA plan to resolve the ongoing winter training ban problem.
There has been speculation about a possible bid from the IRFU to stage the tournament in 12 years’ time and while Duffy hasn’t been approached by the rugby governing body, he would welcome it.
“As a sports fans, it would be great,” the GAA director general said on Newstalk’s Off The Ball last night. “There’d be no problem with the concept of the World Cup coming here.”
Back in 2005, the GAA opened its doors to rugby and soccer while the old Lansdowne Road Stadium was being redeveloped and proposing Croke Park as a venue in 2023 seems an option as Central Council can grant its use at any time.
However, a new ruling would need to be passed in order for other grounds to be made available.
“Theoretically it’s possible but it would require a rule change. It is hard to focus on an event 12 years away but we would be open to debate.”
On the issue of inter-county teams training during the winter break, Duffy is adamant that the issue needs to be resolved.
The rule was brought in four years ago in an attempt to give players a rest and prevent burnout, but increasingly, counties are failing to adhere to it.
“It’s sad and very disappointing,” added Duffy, “I think it is important to remind ourselves why the close season was brought in. It was done on player welfare grounds.
“I would accept that perhaps it needs to be tweaked and we’re attempting to do that in regards to the 2012 season but it has been extremely disappointing and it is embarrassing at this stage.”
An alternative approach has been drafted for GAA Congress and, if successful, would come in next year.
Teams would return to training depending on when they exited from the championship, while there would be a week-long break over Christmas.
