The Irish Rugby Football Union has announced that they will make €500,000 available to their clubs in light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The IRFU confirmed the funding directly to the clubs and provided them with additional advice and guidance during the crisis.

Loans totalling more than €4 million (£3.6m) have been made available to clubs under the Financial Assistance Scheme, while the union also confirmed that it will put in place a moratorium on all club loan repayments for four months, starting from 1 April.

The Irish Rugby Football Union will make €500,000 available to clubs in light of the Covid-19 crisis.https://t.co/kbr1WcE99h

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 24, 2020

In a statement, the IRFU said after a review of its financial position, the union agreed to the funding scheme and that domestic game director Colin McEntee will advise clubs how the funding is to be applied for ‘as soon as is practicable’.

The clubs have also been encouraged to draw on government assistance to try and keep themselves running during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Answer Ireland’s Call and tackle #covid19

Stay safe, follow the expert advice and look out for each other.@HSELive @RugbyPlayersIRE #ItsInOurHands pic.twitter.com/F6nFjkPrKR

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 18, 2020

Photo: Dan Sheridan/Inpho