Rugby:The IRFU has been busy with a spot of housekeeping with news that head coach Declan Kidney and his backroom coaching staff have agreed contract extensions to take their commitment beyond the World Cup later this year.

Alongside Kidney, his assistants, Gert Smal, Les Kiss and Mark Tainton all agreed new contract extensions. The team had been contracted up to the conclusion of the World Cup in October, but the decision of all four coaches sees them commit to Ireland until the conclusion of the 2012-13 season.

The only member not staying on after the World Cup is Alan Gaffney, who will return to his native Australia. No decision will be made on the position of backs coach until after the Rugby World Cup.

“The IRFU are delighted that Declan, Gert, Les and Mark have all agreed to their new contracts,” said Philip Browne, IRFU chief executive. “We felt it was important to give the team continuity over the next four months and importantly after the end of the World Cup tournament in New Zealand.

“Apart from securing the Grand Slam in 2009, the team has made significant progress over the last two years in terms of results and the development of players in international competition. This is not only due to the ability of the players, but the standard of coaching they have received.”

Kidney was pleased to have the opportunity to continue in his role. “It has been a privilege over the last three years to have been involved with the Ireland team and so I am delighted that the IRFU have offered me the opportunity to continue that work,” he said.

“To be able to work with the level of players and coaches that Ireland have had during that time is a chance that very few get, so it has been a wonderful experience.

“While the World Cup has been our focus in terms of developing the team and what we have been aiming at over the last number of years in terms of squad development, I think there are plenty more young players still to come through to international rugby and that is an exciting prospect for the future.”

“I am especially pleased that three of the other coaches are staying in place to continue to work with the team, as I believe they have all been instrumental in helping to bring the squad along in terms of the players and performance levels.

“While the majority of the coaching team are staying on, I feel I must make special mention about Alan Gaffney. Alan is contributing a huge amount to the progress of the team and I know that he will make a positive contribution with his vast rugby knowledge and skills to whatever area he gets involved in.”

Meanwhile Dublin businessman John Hussey created a little bit of history today after becoming the first member from St. Mary’s College RFC (founded 111 years ago) to be enrolled as the 124th president of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU).

Hussey took up the role after today’s annual Council Meeting of the Union held at the Aviva Stadium. He was president of his club in 1988–89.