2 March 2026
The Future of Welsh Rugby
Dear Mr Collier-Keywood,
I write as the result of our evidence session last Thursday, and would like to thank you, Alison Thorne and Geraint John for appearing before the Committee.
We recognise the significant hard work that has been undertaken over the last few years to stabilise the WRUβs financial position, as well as positive developments within the culture of the WRU. We also recognise that the WRU and individual leaders are sometimes exposed to criticism that is unduly harsh, especially online.
However, it is clear to us that Welsh rugby is in a perilous state. Uncertainty surrounding the future of Welsh regions has caused considerable concern to people across our nation. No programme of change can be achieved without building a consensus for change. It is clear that the Union does not have the consensus needed to move forward with the proposal to reduce the number of regional sides from four to three. The WRU must recognise that it has lost the argument over the future of the professional game.
We were alarmed to hear you tell us that you have no Plan B, should your current proposals not progress as planned. Were this the case, it could represent a significant dereliction of duty. We urge you to find an alternative approach that continues to stabilise the finances of the Union and maintains confidence, whilst rebuilding trust with clubs and supporters.
The people of Wales feel a deep sense of ownership, pride and emotional connection to the game. That connection must be respected and nurtured. The Union must not find itself in the position of winning the vote but losing the soul of Welsh rugby.
We would welcome further clarity on the issues raised in this letter.
I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
Delyth Jewell MS
Chair
Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport and International Relations Committee
After the Welsh Rugby Union gave evidence to the Seneddβs Sport Committee on 26 February, the committee has written to the organisation to set out its concerns.
Find out more here: https://business.senedd.wales/mgIssueHistoryHome.aspx?IId=47201
06.03.2026 13:00
π 0
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
An illustration featuring a cartoon dragon wearing a winter hat, joyfully celebrating with a sparkler, under fireworks and the text 'Blwyddyn Newydd Dda'.
Happy New Year to you all π«
01.01.2026 10:02
π 8
π 2
π¬ 0
π 0
Decorative holly leaves and berries on a snowy blue background with the text 'Nadolig Llawen'.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas! π π
25.12.2025 10:27
π 4
π 1
π¬ 0
π 0
With long wait times and not enough clinical support available, Senedd Health Committee heard that many people are facing the impact of delayed eyecare treatment.
The Committee are calling for the National Clinical strategy to be implemented, to prevent further delays - https://bit.ly/43PSCy8
28.11.2025 16:00
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
The new Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly, Lindsay Whittle MS, made his affirmation in Siambr Hywel today.
You can find out more about Members and find the MS for your constituency at: https://bit.ly/3Y6sSJv
24.10.2025 15:12
π 6
π 1
π¬ 0
π 0
What are your thoughts on greyhound racing in Wales?
The Seneddβs Culture Committee want to hear your views!
Complete the survey and have your say: https://bit.ly/4q4JGhR
14.10.2025 11:12
π 1
π 3
π¬ 0
π 0
Senedd Committee urges action to unite communities across Wales.
A Senedd report warns Wales is βat a crossroadsβ as divisions deepen.
It calls for urgent action to rebuild trust, tackle misinformation and bring communities together. https://senedd.wales/senedd-now/news/wales-at-a-crossroads-urgent-action-needed-to-unite-communities/
09.10.2025 15:52
π 1
π 1
π¬ 0
π 0
Image of several greyhounds racing on a dirt track, with one in the lead wearing a yellow vest. The image is labeled "Survey: Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Bill."
π£ Share your views!
The Seneddβs Culture Committee survey on greyhound racing in Wales is now live.
You've only got a couple of weeks to take part, so make sure you have your say π https://bit.ly/4q4JGhR
06.10.2025 17:54
π 1
π 3
π¬ 0
π 0
All the key dates for the 2026 Senedd election, in one place.
From polling day to post-election milestones, this timeline will be kept currentβso you can check back whenever you need the latest. https://bit.ly/42ObrRC
01.10.2025 15:50
π 3
π 2
π¬ 0
π 0
Exterior view of the Senedd Cymru, Welsh Parliament building, featuring a combination of wooden and glass architecture with a stone base.
MSs are questioning the Welsh Government on the economy, energy, planning, health and social care today.
Later, theyβll debate a debate a proposal for a Bill on fly-tipping and a petition calling for swift bricks in be installed in new buildings. https://bit.ly/42jQ9ep
01.10.2025 07:00
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
At the 2026 election, this formula will help shape the Senedd.
It allocates seats in rounds, turning votes into representation.
Hereβs how it works and what that means for voters in Wales. https://bit.ly/41pWuVi
30.09.2025 16:10
π 3
π 2
π¬ 0
π 1
The First Minister of Wales speaking at a podium.
MSs question the First Minister in todayβs FMQs.
Later, theyβll hear Welsh Government statements on priorities for Welsh place names and the future of the Crown Estate in Wales.
Here's everything coming up today. https://business.senedd.wales/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=700&MId=15365&Ver=4
30.09.2025 07:00
π 0
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
Welsh Government must take Walesβ future infrastructure needs more seriously
The Welsh Government must give greater priority to planning for Walesβ future infrastructure needs according to a Senedd Committee.
Planning for projects like flood defences and energy developments are being held back by the Welsh Government.
This is one of the key findings from a Senedd Infrastructure Committee report.
Members will be debating the report in the Senedd today.
Find out more: https://bit.ly/46wh08m
24.09.2025 09:47
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
How well do you know the Senedd?
Test your knowledge with our quick quiz and see what you discover along the way. https://senedd.wales/senedd-now/senedd-blog/senedd-wales-quiz/
21.09.2025 13:48
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
Members of the Senedd (MSs) have voted in favour of the Bus Services Billβs general principlesβ37 supported, 12 opposed, and 1 abstained.
It now enters a detailed phase of debate and possible changes before Members vote on whether it should become law. https://bit.ly/3KqW3nM
19.09.2025 16:00
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
The Disused Mine and Quarry Tips (Wales) Bill 2025 has now received Royal Assent and becomes an Act of Senedd Cymruβa new law for Wales.
You can read the full details of the Act on our website. https://bit.ly/47MMKs0
18.09.2025 17:11
π 1
π 1
π¬ 1
π 0
A car submerged in water on a flooded street. The image headline reads "Storm damage: Lack of support a 'kick in the teeth'."
Emergency support after storms Bert and Darragh fell short for Welsh communities.
Families and businesses faced huge costs with little help.
The Seneddβs Climate Change Committee is calling for urgent reforms to funding, insurance and infrastructure planning.
π https://bit.ly/46aNF2Z
17.09.2025 16:05
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
A Senedd Committee has called for reform of intermediate care in Wales.
It say post-hospital placements must prioritise recovery, independence and access to specialist care. https://bit.ly/4mm3REK
16.09.2025 16:14
π 0
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
A Senedd Committee has raised concerns about support for patients leaving hospital in Wales.
It urges a rethink of discharges to ensure care focuses on recovery and helping people regain independence. https://bit.ly/4mm3REK
16.09.2025 09:00
π 0
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
A new Bill could re-regulate buses, but evidence suggested franchising needs major investment and planning.
A Senedd Committee questions costs and highlights a lack of detail in key areas.
Tomorrow, the Senedd votes on its general principles. https://bit.ly/4npEcfr
15.09.2025 09:00
π 0
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
Whatβs the difference between the Welsh Government and the Senedd?
People often mix up βgovernmentβ and βparliamentβ, but they have different jobs.
Government and Parliamentβoften confused, yet their roles couldnβt be more different.
Letβs take a closer look at what each does. https://bit.ly/4nGmZiw
13.09.2025 09:00
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
At the 2026 election, this formula will help shape the Senedd.
It allocates seats in rounds, turning votes into representation.
Hereβs how it works and what that means for voters in Wales. https://bit.ly/41pWuVi
12.09.2025 09:00
π 2
π 2
π¬ 2
π 2
A new Bill could transform bus travel in Wales.
However, a Senedd Committee is concerned it lacks detail and clear guidanceβa view echoed by stakeholders.
The Senedd will vote on the general principles of the Bill on 16 September. https://bit.ly/4npEcfr
10.09.2025 09:00
π 3
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
Storm damage: Lack of support a βkick in the teethβ
A committee report has exposed critical gaps in the Welsh Government and local authority responses to winter storms.
Emergency support after storms Bert and Darragh fell short for Welsh communities.
Families and businesses faced huge costs with little help.
The Seneddβs Climate Change Committee is calling for urgent reforms to funding, insurance and infrastructure planning.
Read more π
09.09.2025 09:44
π 1
π 0
π¬ 0
π 0
On 7 May 2026, Wales votes on the biggest Senedd changes in 25 years: 96 Members, 16 new constituencies, one vote each.
Whether itβs your first vote or not, hereβs whatβs changingβand why. https://bit.ly/4m9Of7T
08.09.2025 09:00
π 2
π 2
π¬ 0
π 0
How well do you know the Senedd?
Test your knowledge with our quick quiz and see what you discover along the way. https://senedd.wales/senedd-now/senedd-blog/senedd-wales-quiz/
06.09.2025 14:51
π 0
π 1
π¬ 0
π 0
Did you know that your Senedd is changing in 2026?
βοΈThe way you elect who represents you
πΊοΈHow many Members represent you
π
How often elections are held, to choose who represents you
Everything you need to know β¬οΈ
https://bit.ly/4lZnAdc
05.09.2025 09:00
π 1
π 1
π¬ 0
π 0
Ever heard of DβHondt?
From 2026, this formula will shape the Senedd. It allocates seats in rounds, balancing votes and representation.
Hereβs what that means for voters in Wales. https://bit.ly/41pWuVi
04.09.2025 12:00
π 2
π 1
π¬ 0
π 0