On Thursday, the IRFU also announced that Gillian McDarby had been appointed to a newly created head of women’s performance and pathways role.
“To respect the importance of the upcoming test windows in Japan and the Sevens World Cup, the IRFU will discuss the details of the contracts with players before making further public pronouncements on these exciting developments,” said an IRFU statement.
“The contracts have been benchmarked internationally and will range up to €30,000 plus match fees and bonuses.”
The IRFU said McDarby would be responsible for “the development, delivery, and implementation of the approved strategic and operational direction of the women’s rugby performance programme for both XVs and Sevens”.
McDarby was on Cycling Ireland’s board of directors from 2017 to 2021 and has worked as the IRFU’s high performance centre facilities and operations manager for the last two years.
“I’m looking forward to working with all stakeholders to bring the women’s game to the next level,” said McDarby.
“It’s also pleasing that my appointment coincides with the formal announcement of contracts for up to 43 female players. This is a major step forward for women’s rugby in Ireland.”