MP takes Visa problems to parliament

Rugby league was on the agenda in the Home Office regarding the recent problems surrounding work permits and VISA’s for overseas players.

The issue was recently raised by Leeds Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington following the delay in obtaining a permit for recent signing Weller Hauraki.

His complaints have now been raised by Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland, who has raised his concerns with the current system with Damien Green, the Immigration Minister.

Mulholland said: “As the local MP I have assisted Leeds Rhinos in Visa cases on a number of occasions and It seems that for Rugby League players it is sometimes more difficult to obtain Visas and work permits, than if they were playing another sport.

“It would seem that the current system works against Rugby League players, including leading internationals, who despite receiving specialist services from Law Firms such as Chadwick Lawrence, who Leeds Rhinos have used, have still had serious problems with their applications. This must be looked in to as it should not be the case that some sports men and women receive preferential treatment in comparison to others.

“I hope that by meeting with the minister and representatives from the Rugby Football League, we can discuss the matter in greater depth and ensure that in future Rugby League players are treated on par with other sports men and women, when it comes to applying for Visas and work permits.”

Damien Green has agreed to meet with Greg and representatives from the RFL, to discuss the current system and the apparent disparities for Rugby League players when applying for Visas and work permits.