The NRL Match Review Committee has today initiated defamation proceedings against Queensland Origin coach Mal Meninga, as well as Queensland Newspapers over a diatribe published last Sunday.
The proceedings relate to a a statement of claim filed with the Supreme Court of NSW on behalf of the Committee.
Earlier attempts to find a resolution out of court were unsuccessful.
The NRL has stated it will support the Match Review Committee’s proceedings at least until such time as the offending statements made in relation to them are withdrawn and an apology is issued.
NRL CEO David Gallop issued a statement tonight:
“The statements in the article were seriously offensive to individuals who carry out important roles for the game with absolute integrity,” said Gallop.
“This has nothing to do with interstate rivalry or a person’s right to challenge a decision but it has everything to do with the fact that there are laws against falsely attacking a person’s good name and reputation.
“Had it involved an NRL coach it would certainly have resulted in a substantial fine which may have in some way lessened the need for independent legal action from the parties involved.
“In any case it remains our responsibility to assist in protecting those people who carry out important roles for the game from baseless allegations of bias or corruption.
“The members of the Match Review Committee are entitled to defend themselves in such a situation and are entitled to expect that the game will offer them support in the process.”
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