News

Tuqiri sacking investigated

July 31 2009

Australia's rugby players' association said Friday it has appointed a Queen's Counsel to investigate the Australian Rugby Union's (ARU) termination of Wallaby winger Lote Tuqiri's playing contract.

The Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) said John Spender QC, a former federal MP and government ambassador, would conduct the investigation on RUPA's behalf.

RUPA chief executive Tony Dempsey said the inquiry would look at whether the ARU followed proper processes when it this month ditched Tuqiri, a 67-Test veteran, halfway through a five-year contract - reportedly worth AU$700,000 (US$560,000) a year.

Tuqiri's disputed sacking is heading to the courts, with the first hearing expected to take place late next week.

Dempsey said RUPA has decided to broaden the scope of its investigation, under Spender, beyond Tuqiri's contract termination to include suspensions and fines imposed on players over the past five years by the ARU and state unions.

"We want to be clear on what the process is for fines and suspensions and summary terminations for our members and be sure that any disciplinary action imposed is commensurate with the alleged breach," Dempsey said in a statement.

"It is important we get clarity and transparency in all matters and ensure all parties have acted in good faith.

"We want to be certain all our members have been and will continue to be afforded natural justice."

Dempsey said he anticipated the investigation would take some time to reach its conclusions.

Media reports have said that Tuqiri, overlooked for selection for four Tests this season by Wallabies coach Robbie Deans before his dramatic dumping, was investigated by the ARU over allegations of inappropriate behaviour in a public place.

The governing body has not revealed the reasons for his sacking, but ARU chief executive John O'Neill said that Tuqiri had received a letter two years ago warning that further contract breaches would not be tolerated.