RLPA rejects move to give ARL Commission judicial oversight

The RLPA has slammed changes to the judiciary rules that have given the ARL Commission the power to charge players, saying the move undermines player confidence.

The players’ union is headed for a showdown with the ARL Commission over changes to the judiciary rules that have given the commission the power to charge players, slamming the move as unprecedented overreach that undermines player confidence.

The Rugby League Players Association broke their silence on the issue on Friday in the wake of revelations in this masthead that the commission had introduced the judiciary changes, which they said provided another level of safety for clubs and players.

RLPA chief executive Clint Newton took a different view as the players union voiced their serious concerns and warned they would explore what options were at their disposal.

“The ARLC’s decision to give itself unfettered power to charge players for on-field matters is an unprecedented overreach of extra judicial power,” Newton said.

“The powers now vested in the ARLC are entirely unnecessary. While the ARLC make decisions that relate to protecting the health and safety of the players, these new powers go far beyond their responsibilities or day to day expertise.

“The existing Match Review Committee (MRC) and its processes give players, clubs and fans confidence that the decisions to charge players are made within a truly independent framework.

“No judicial system is perfect, and there will always be debate regarding verdicts, but the independent MRC comprises appropriate members with the right combination of expertise and experience.

Rugby League Players Association CEO Clint Newton. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“We believe the MRC and its independent framework is best placed to review matches and assess whether any conduct by a player may constitute an offence, and if so, at what grading. The ARLC is not a form of independent judicial oversight.

“To overrule the MRC with discretionary powers undermines the players trust in the existing system of providing fair, equitable and consistent decisions that impact them financially and professionally.”

ARLC chairman Peter V'landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo.

“Any exercise of the proposed power would have the effect of diluting the appearance of independence and function of the MRC.”

The RLPA added that they would now consider their next steps given the process that led to the ARLC’s decision – they are due to hold their next board meeting in June.

Earlier in the week, ARL Commission chair Peter V’landys told this masthead that the changes were a safeguard that may never be used.

“If something is missed, there’s an insurance policy in place,” V’landys said.

“It might never be used. However, we have to be proactive and be ready for any circumstances. That’s basically what it is.

“It’s actually ironically for the benefit of the clubs and the players because if somebody commits foul play and it’s been missed, and they should have been penalised, that power is there.”