NRL PRESS RELEASE
An independent report has found that the Bulldogs Rugby League Club acted appropriately and sensitively in addressing issues involving Ben Barba earlier this year.
Prepared by Tony Bannon SC, the report is based on first hand interviews, an assessment of documented records, a review of media allegations and a review of the legal responsibilities facing the Bulldogs.
I have completed my report and on present information there is no basis for the NRL acting against the Club or against Ben Barba, Mr Bannon said.
Mr Bannon found that based on the facts at hand the club was not in a position to establish an act of domestic violence.
The club was (and remains) confronted with the strongest of denials in relation to those claims.
Mr Bannon notes that Ms Currie declined to be interviewed but through her lawyer referred Mr Bannon to her public statement of September 1 in which she denied being a victim of domestic violence.
The report was commissioned by the NRL Integrity Unit and has been reviewed by NRL Chief Executive, Mr Dave Smith, and presented to the ARL Commission.
We have gone to great lengths to ensure an independent process, NRL Chief Operating Officer, Mr Jim Doyle, said today.
It is one that has been sensitive to the rights of the family members at the centre of these issues while also fully examining the Bulldogs handling of the issues.
One of the key points highlighted throughout the report is the pressure that is being placed on the family through the ongoing discussion.
Ms Currie has been clear in asking that her privacy is respected and there is a need for us all to be mindful of the needs of the family.
Accordingly, the NRL will make no further comment.
Todd Balym ‏@toddbalym
