The Fijian and the Samoan Rugby Unions are now members of the World Rugby Council, the Chairman of the World Rugby Chairman, Sir Bill Beaumont announced on 23 May at the World Rugby headquarter, Dublin, Ireland. 

A new governance model that was launched in November 2015 is hailed to have opened the way for a wider representation in the World Rugby’s Council, and Fiji and Samoa have successfully achieved the requirement of the new governance criteria, according to a Press Statement from the Council.

The World Rugby’s Council now have 51 members; another landmark, in line with the World Rugby’s sweeping governance reform, 17 of the 51 Council member positions are occupied by women.

"This is an historic day for World Rugby and the Pacific Islands, and a reflection of the importance and success of the transformational governance reforms made by this organisation and the unions.

"We are delighted to be welcoming Fiji and Samoa to Council, two unions who have contributed so much to the game. The Pacific Islands are unique, immersed in rugby heritage, and I know that the unions will bring excellent insights and make strong contributions on Council.

"This shows that the model is in place, the pathway is in place and the door is open to other unions who aspire to have a seat on Council. We encourage all unions to take inspiration from Fiji and Samoa, review their governance and strive to achieve the required criteria. . .”

Council Member for Fiji, Francis Kean responded: "This is a significant moment for Fiji rugby and all those who have worked towards this objective, implementing new structures and governance pathways. We look forward to working with World Rugby and the Council to further our contribution to the global game in the board room."

Honorable Prime Minister Tuilaepa Malielegaoi added: "The World Rugby Council is a very important place to be - it is where decisions are made on the future of the sport and Samoa is very excited to be here.  We've played an active role in participating in international rugby competitions across the world – from fifteens to sevens – despite being a very small country with a small player pool so for us to be here at this meeting, and to unite with World Rugby on their vision to grow the sport, is an incredible learning experience."

Tonga

Meanwhile in Tonga, the current Members of the Tonga Rugby Union Council are:

• President - the Prime Minister, Hon. ‘Akilisi Pohiva.
• Vice President – Fe’ao Vunipola, who is also the interim Chief Executive Officer.
• Government representative in Council, Hon. Poasi Tei, a Cabinet Minister.
• Other council members: Hon. Tu’I Uata, ‘Aisea ‘Aholelei, Uate Halatoafa, Muimui Fakahua, Kapelieli Cocker, and Samuela Fautoki.

The TRU has not made a statement on whether or not it plans to review its governance criteria.