The IRFU's scheduled meeting for next Thursday has been postponed as rugby's governing body awaits a document from Irish Rugby Union Players' Association (IRUPA) and anticipated proposals from Connacht concerning the future of rugby in the province.
The IRFU believes the postponement of the meeting will provide sufficient time to 'evaluate that and all other options' relating to the future of Connacht rugby before the newly scheduled meeting on February 7th.
That meeting is due to take place between the IRUPA and IRFU representatives, after which, the IRUPA proposals will be circulated to the members of the IRFU Committee.
Similarly, the Connacht Branch will be asked to forward its proposals in advance so that the Union Committee is 'given sufficient time to make a proper evaluation'.
Realising the magnitude of the problem at hand the IRFU was keen to emphasise that it welcomes all initiatives relating to solving the shared challenges facing Irish rugby.