Wayne Pivac and WRU chief Martyn Phillips take 25% wage cuts amid pandemic
- Published
Martyn Phillips (L) joined WRU chairman Gareth Davies in announcing Wayne Pivac (R) as Warren Gatland's Wales coach successor in July, 2018
Wales coach Wayne Pivac and Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) chief executive Martyn Phillips will each take a 25% pay cut because of the coronavirus crisis.
The WRU has also announced other staff members will take a 10% wage cut as it tries to meet financial challenges while the sport is on hold.
The measures will come into force on Wednesday, 1 April with Phillips saying talks over players' wages are ongoing.
Those talks also involve Wales' four professional regions.
"We are continuing our constructive dialogue with the Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) and the regions," said Phillips.
"This includes an exchange of information with the WRPA, particularly around the complex financials involved, so that all parties can come to an informed decision.
"We are working as quickly as possible to bring this to a conclusion."
With Principality Stadium events and games cancelled or postponed, the WRU's finances led to it implementing what it describes as "a comprehensive plan for cost savings".
Phillips added: "I have been struck by the efforts and attitude of all WRU staff during this crisis."
The WRU say the first part of the plan has already delivered cash savings for the WRU and phase two included a review of staff costs.
Senior rugby staff will join Pivac, Phillips and his fellow WRU executives in taking the 25% salary reduction.
WRU employees whose work is not directly related to professional rugby could see their income cut by 10%.
Furloughing, in accordance with the Government's Job Retention Scheme, will be also be used until the end of May.
"We have taken these steps to aim to safeguard jobs and protect the medium and long-term health of the game in Wales," added Phillips.
"We remain focused on our goal to come out of the other side of this crisis."
Members of staff at Principality Stadium have been offered the opportunity to continue in full-time work supporting NHS staff as the national ground becomes a field hospital.
"The speed and efficiency with which our stadium is being transformed into a hospital is just one example of the hard work and dedication of our team," added Phillips.
"I know there will be hardship to endure, but equally I know that all our staff have the very best interests of Welsh rugby and the wider community in Wales at heart and that we will get through these tough times together."
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