RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer, who is leaving his post at the end of the year, has been investigated after a complaint was lodged following comments he made about the Fiji national team at the Championship and League One awards dinner on September 26.
Last update: 22/10/07 6:32 p.m.
Ralph Rimmer has been investigated for comments made at a recent awards dinner
RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer has avoided punishment for using “unacceptable” language at an official ceremony.
The governing body opened an investigation into Rimmer’s actions after receiving a complaint about comments he made about the Fiji national team at the Championship and League One awards dinner on September 26.
The RFL says it has followed procedures under the Directors’ Code of Conduct, led by RFL chairman Simon Johnson, who submitted a 21-page report to the RFL board and Rimmer, who has announced last month his intention to step down from his role at the end of the year.
He said the procedures involved gathering information from three independent experts, in addition to a number of dinner attendees, and a statement from Rimmer – who apologized for his comments.
Views from the Fiji Rugby League and their traveling World Cup team were also sought.
“The report concluded that the language fell within the broad definition of unacceptable language as set out in the RFL’s operational rules and could therefore be considered a breach of the code of conduct,” a statement from the governing body said.
“However, he noted that the comment was taken in the context of a wider discussion about the World Cup; that any insults directed at the Fiji national team or people from Fiji or Fijian origin or heritage was unintentional; and that the Fiji national team, Federation and Confederation have accepted Ralph Rimmer’s apology for the comments.
“Noting the agreement of all those consulted that there was no intent in the use of unacceptable language; that a full apology has been offered and accepted; and considering relevant and applicable precedents , other sports and previous RFL compliance investigations, the President’s decision is that no formal disciplinary action is appropriate.
“The issue will be addressed through education, which will take place over the three months leading up to Ralph Rimmer’s previously announced departure from the RFL at the end of the year.”
The statement was released two hours before Fiji were due to face England in a Rugby League World Cup warm-up match at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford.