Welsh Rugby Union facing sexism and discrimination allegations | Rugby Union News

A number of former employees of the Welsh Rugby Union have taken part in an investigation by BBC Wales making accusations about their time in the governing body; MP and former Wales international Tonia Antoniazzi has expressed “deep concern” about the women’s game in the country.

The Welsh Rugby Union is facing allegations of sexism and discrimination which have prompted MP and former Wales international Tonia Antoniazzi to express “huge concern” about the women’s game in the country.

A number of former WRU employees have been involved in the investigation by BBC Waleswill air on Monday night, making allegations about his time at the governing body.

Charlotte Wathan, general manager of women’s rugby until she resigned last February, claims offensive comments by a colleague left her in tears and feeling hurt, while another unnamed contributor said she was left thinking about her death by experiences of bullying and sexism at work, according to BBC Wales investigate.

Incidents of racism and homophobia are also suspected.

The WRU said a “peaceful resolution” had been reached with Wathan “to the satisfaction of both parties” following an investigation by an external law firm. It said the confidentiality agreement between the parties prevents further details.

He noted that other complaints had been investigated and later withdrawn, while new information included in the broadcast would be “followed up and acted upon”.

A spokesperson said: “The Welsh Rugby Union condemns the use of racist, homophobic or sexist language and states in the strongest terms that racism, homophobic, sexist or bullying behavior has no place in Welsh rugby.”

A statement continues: “It is very important to note that we have a duty to care as an employer for the complainants and those who complain.

“The duty of care continues and we are deeply concerned about the impact of this program on those involved in the allegations that have been described as remaining unsubstantiated following a full independent legal investigation.”

But Antoniazzi, who once played for Wales as a prop and now represents the Gower constituency and is Northern Ireland Labour’s shadow minister, remains concerned by the testimony.

He compared the evidence to the racism scandal that hit cricket after Azeem Rafiq’s allegations against Yorkshire, and believed an independent body was needed to rein in the sporting institution in Wales.

“It’s at the level of what’s happening in cricket. I have huge concerns about the future of women’s rugby in Wales,” she said. BBC.

“There should be an independent body set up to look at complaints … all complaints when there is a problem with a governing body, the governing body of sport in Wales.

Responding to the comments, the WRU said: “In light of the comments made by MP Tonia Antoniazzi, the WRU invited the Labor MP for Gower to make direct contact regarding the issues raised and would welcome the opportunity to discuss their concerns.”