The Malta Rugby Football Union’s long-time dream of having their own stadium moved a step closer to reality yesterday after Kunsill Malti għall-Isport granted them a stretch of land in Għajn Dwieli where new facilities will be erected.
The signing of the agreement was held during a news conference at the site presided over by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport Clyde Puli, KMS chairman Bernard Vassallo and top MRFU officials Neil Galea and Brian Dalton.
The contract will see the rugby organisation owning the Għajn Dwieli site, not far from the shipyard, on a lease for the next 49 years. Moreover, they will also receive a grant of €500,000 for the completion of the project.
“This is a historic day for the Malta Rugby Football Union,” Galea, the MRFU secretary general, said in his address.
“Negotiations took time to conclude but today we’re signing an agreement for us to own this plot of land where we can have our new rugby stadium.
“I have to show my appreciation to the authorities concerned. But there’s so many other people I would like to thank, all involved in the running of the MRFU for the past 30 years and very instrumental in promoting our sport.
“Special mention must go to our president Martin Galea who, unfortunately, could not be here with us for this special occasion as he’s abroad on work commitments.
“Martin is the MRFU’s driving force.
“He worked tirelessly not only to reach this objective but also to provide a solid structure for our organisation.
“Rugby has achieved a lot lately and no doubt these facilities when ready will continue to help us in our drive to push for higher standards.”
It was also confirmed yesterday that the MRFU will continue to make use of the rugby pitches at the Marsa Sports Ground where new dressing rooms and offices will be constructed.
Dr Gonzi said rugby has left a huge impact particularly through the performances of the men’s national team at international level, matches that have generated a lot enthusiasm among the Maltese sporting public and rugby followers in particular.
“We have always admired the success achieved by the rugby team in international matches,” Dr Gonzi said.
“I myself had the opportunity to watch the team in action on various occasions and I’ve always been impressed with the pride shown by the players and the enthusiasm of the crowd supporting the national team.
“Negotiations over the new stadium took their time as we give a lot of consideration to projects of this kind. Every square kilometre of land in our country is precious so we must take the right decision.
“However, this agreement is testimony of our commitment to continue investing in sport and new facilities. This stadium will further develop rugby on our shores.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Sport Puli said: “This contract, which has an estimated value of over seven million euros, puts the MRFU on a stronger basis.
“When ready, they will be in a position to stage competitions in two different venues, Għajn Dwieli and Marsa where a new rugby house and dressing room facilities will be erected.
“Our drive to boost the sporting culture in Malta has never waned as we want to encourage our people to be active and lead a healthier lifestyle.”