Lobbying Ulster Rugby Sponsors

[TrippingTheVelvet]

As far as I'm aware, Ulster Rugby haven't yet made a decision about the future if the players caught up in the trial. The general concensus of those around me seems to be they were found not guilty and so should be allowed to return. I strongly disagree - prominent public figures should be of good moral fibre and be able to demonstrate in all their actions that they are committed to equality and decency. I will be writing to the sponsors of Ulster Rugby making my views known and to hopefully pressure them into thinking about whether they want to be associated with such condoning such behaviour. If you'd like to join me, here is a full list of the sponsors. www.ulsterrugby.com/corporate/sponsors-and-partners.php#.WsTGhIHTU0M

Thanks for this. I noticed a few people on twitter had tweeted Subway asking for a response. The men may have been found not guilty but the evidence clearly demonstrates unacceptable behaviour and attitudes. I can see why sponsors might want to wait for Ulster Rugby's internal review before taking any action but actually I think that's a bit short sighted. Rugby has a massive sexism problem and it needs to be properly addressed. Sponsors should be asked to consider their support in these circumstances.

Apologies the above post isn't written very well! I was caught on the hop. I've written a letter asking do they feel the behaviour displayed by the players represent their values? And if not, would they continue to provide financial assistance and sponsorship to the club if the players are reinstated as this would be a clear endorsement of that decision.

Excellent! I'm really glad you raised the topic here because it's something practical we can do to keep the pressure up. I'll be writing some letters too. Thank you for the link to the list of sponsors!

... Or were you suggesting a joint letter from multiple MNers? I think that's a good idea in principle but possibly difficult to organise via MN because of the anonymity here...

I was thinking of multiple, individual letters. I think that would have the strongest impact. I was pleased to see Bank of Ireland and BT have both released statements saying they will be paying close attention to the internal investigation.

For any Belfarstians, there is a protest outside the Ķingspan next Friday (13th) if anyone is interested. For those that aren't local, suggestions for placards welcome. I'm not gifted with words and the best I have so far is "Role Models - Not Roasters" - which is crap-

I'm not so concerned about Ulster Rugby - Ulster is a club and can employ anyone they like; it's up to their specific supporters to decide who they want playing for them and whether they want to turn up and support.

I'm much, much more concerned about the IRFU. Representing your country is very different from merely playing for a club. I have therefore emailed the IRFU directly asking them to consider whether they should have standards of behaviour for their players who are role models for many youngsters.

The IRFU can be contacted on [email protected]. Or Phil Browne (CE) is on LinkedIn for anyone registered there.The IRFU is also active on FB and Twitter, so there are lots of ways of ensuring they know how we are all feeling.

Surely they will lose sponsors if they do employ them? As a business, they won't want this.

Saying that, there taking an awful long time to make this decision...

Thanks Maryz. I have also emailed IRFU as you suggested. I think it's important to make clear to anyone who is in a position to allow these men to be viewed as potential role models to be pressured to make their views known - whether that be through employing them or financial endorsement.