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IRFU apply to take part in protective goggles trial

The IRFU has applied to take part in World Rugby's ongoing trial of Raleri’s protectiv...



IRFU apply to take part in pro...
Rugby

IRFU apply to take part in protective goggles trial

The IRFU has applied to take part in World Rugby's ongoing trial of Raleri’s protective goggles today.

The application comes after pressure from former Ireland U20 international Ian McKinley, who was unable to play in a match against Connacht because the eye wear is currently banned in Ireland.

His petition to allow the goggles to be warn garnered 13,000 signatures and after a review by the the federation's medical committee, the IRFU has now confirmed its application to participate in the ongoing World Rugby Raleri goggles trial.

The move comes following a recommendation by the committee, who performed a review of World Rugby trial data and updated advice given by independent medical experts.

The former Leinster out-half lost sight in one eye after a training-ground accident in 2010 and has been forced to wear the goggles ever since.

McKinley has been able to play rugby for Italian side Zebre, because the Italian federation is part of the global trial.

Speaking to The42 back in October, McKinley said: "We feel nearly two years into the trial, more than 500 people using the goggles, including myself playing at the highest level in Italy, the wait has been too long and that’s why we’re putting pressure on the IRFU and World Rugby to get this done".

The restriction will remain in place until the application is accepted by World Rugby, which expected to be in early 2016.

A statement released by the IRFU today said: “If the IRFU is accepted onto the trial those seeking to wear goggles on the field must then apply to World Rugby to participate in the trial and purchase the Raleri goggles directly from the Italian manufacturer – in accordance with the terms of the trial, no other eyewear will be permitted.

“The IRFU encourages parents, players, coaches and volunteers to review information available from World Rugby in relation to the trial.”

Via The42

 

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