http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/...atta-salary-cap-breaches-20171203-gzxkqd.html
RLPA vows not to go soft on agents tied up in Parramatta salary cap breaches
RLPA chief executive Ian Prendergast rejects any suggestion his organisation will go soft on player managers involved in the Parramatta salary cap breaches, while expressing frustration over the lengthy process to reform the rules around player agent activities.
Under the new collective bargaining agreement, the Rugby League Accredited Player Agent Scheme is set to be reformed, with the RLPA assuming responsibility for the day-to-day management and administration of the scheme.
It is understood that the NRL's Integrity Unit will also investigate complaints and alleged breaches by agents under new rules that will be developed next year.
The NRL understands it will have two representatives on a new committee overseeing agents while the RLPA will also have two, alongside an independent chair.
However, Prendergast said this is not fait accompli.
"The role of agents has never been more important, particularly given the ever-increasing demands and scrutiny on professional athletes," Prendergast said. "The fiduciary role that agents have is a serious responsibility and it requires professional skills and standards.
"There are many very good agents who provide a high level of support for their clients in protecting and advancing their interests.
"Like other areas of the industry, however, there is room for significant improvement.
"We want to continue to elevate the status of this important space, not only for the benefit of the players and the game, but also for the benefit of those agents who are dedicated to their profession and to providing a quality service.
"For some time now, there have been formal and informal discussions about the need to review the scheme and who should oversee this area of the game.
"However, for a range of reasons that work has not been progressed, which has caused stakeholders to become increasingly frustrated in recent years."
Prendergast is adamant that following all of the talk, it is most important that the industry buys into the wholesale industry changes.
"The RLPA is committed to working through a process in 2018 with agents and the NRL to introduce a new accreditation scheme that ensures agents are engaged, respected and held accountable in line with the requirements of their important roles going forward.
"Agents will be closely consulted throughout the process including via the existing committee, through working groups, at agent workshops as well as through regular verbal and written communication.
"It is exciting that we can work together to develop best practice standards to enhance this important area."
