European Rugby League’s Annual Council Meeting will take place on Saturday 22 November, and will discuss a proposal to move the organization’s headquarters to France. At last year’s meeting it was agreed to undertake an analysis of options within the European Union to relocate the company to in order to access greater funding.

Submissions were received from France, Ireland and Netherlands, with experienced rugby league administrator Niel Wood commissioned to independently review them and visit each relevant sports ministry and partners before making a final recommendation to the ERL Board, who in turn are proposing the special resolution to the members.

“The papers for the Annual Council Meeting have been distributed to members for what is a very significant meeting,” said ERL chair Dean Andrew. “Last year we stated the aim that we wished to position ERL to be eligible to apply for and receive European Union funding and, with a comprehensive report and research in place, are ready to make that recommendation to the membership and to begin the process. 

“It is a hugely significant vote for the future direction of the ERL, and I am looking forward to as many of our members as possible joining the meeting.” 

The Annual Council Meeting, which takes place online, is open to all ERL Full, Affiliate and Observer members, and will also conduct its usual business of receiving the annual report, an update on company finances and reveal the result of the member-elected director ballot, which is currently underway.