The Commerce Commission has given public notice that it is considering varying its decision number 580, at the request of the New Zealand Rugby Union.

In Decision 580, issued on 2 June 2006, the Commission authorised the New Zealand Rugby Union to enter into and to give effect to arrangements to institute a salary cap for the Provincial Unions competing in the Premier Division of the then new inter-provincial rugby competition, now known as the Air New Zealand Cup competition; and to apply new rules governing player transfers.

Under subsection 65(1)(b) of the Commerce Act, the Commission may amend an authorisation if there has been a material change of circumstances since the authorisation was granted. On the basis that there may have been a material change of circumstances, the Commission is considering a possible variation to Decision 580.

Any person who is likely to have an interest in the matter should give written notice, together with reasons for that interest, to the Commission by 26 January 2007. Submissions on the possible variation (preferably in electronic form) should also be made by 26 January 2007.