At a meeting of the IRFU Committee last Friday, it was agreed that the AIB League competition model going forward needed to take account of the necessity for a high-level competitive structure, while at the same time recognising the evolving trends in the club game in Ireland.

In this regard, the Union has decided that the competition model will be based on the operation of strong Provincial Leagues, which will lead to the formation of a Division 1, 2 and 3 AIB League structure on an annual basis.

In reaching this decision, the Union Committee took cognisance of extensive feedback received through the Consultative Strategic Process and the clubs themselves.

The existing AIB League structure remains in place as previously agreed with the clubs until the end of season 2004 05.