IRFU Statement

The Irish Rugby Football Union has been informed by the Independent Drugs Tribunal, composed of Chief Justice, Mr Tom Finlay (chairman), Dr Tony O'Neill and Dr Brendan Buckley that it has adjudicated on a case referred to it following the France v Ireland U-21s International on March 6th, 1998, at La Roche Sur Yon.

The tribunal's decision on the matter is as follows:

1. That an unintentional offence within the meaning of regulation 5 and 9(c) of the regulations governing the use of drugs has been committed by Mr T Tierney.

2. The tribunal recommends to the committee of the Irish Rugby Football Union that Mr T Tierney be reprimanded for the commission of the said offence.

The Irish Rugby Football Union has accepted this recommendation in relation to Tom Tierney, Garryowen FC.

The prohibited substance involved was ephedrine.

In relation to the finding, involving a separate player, referred to the Irish Rugby Football Union on October 6th, 1998, based on information received from the United Kingdom Sports Council, following a Five Nations Championship match last season, it was necessary for the union to have the matter further investigated by an independent medical consultant.

The consultant verified that the player had taken a prescribed substance for genuine therapeutic reasons, which the player had declared, and as a consequence a positive finding had not arisen.

In the circumstances, the Independent Drugs Tribunal is of the view that there is no issue which it is necessary for the tribunal to try.

Regulations of the IRFU

Regulation 5 - The identification of a banned substance or substances in a participant in quantum above such quantum as may be defined by the International Olympic Council Medical Commission or by the Irish Rugby Football Union will constitute an offence by such participant.

Regulation 9 - c - A reprimand may be given if the drugs tribunal is satisfied that there has been an "unintentional offence" in that the drug was not taken to enhance performance but that the participant has failed to disclose the taking of medication (as listed by the International Olympic Committee) which has led to the positive result.