RUGBY: The IRFU have struck a new three-year deal with RTÉ regarding the broadcasting of domestic and international rugby.

As part of the deal, a new magazine type rugby programme has also been agreed for the first time. It is expected that it will run to 13 parts.

Although no details of the format of the programme have been agreed, it is thought that it may mirror the style of the highly original GAA magazine programme Breaking Ball.

The three-year deal with RTÉ covering Ireland's Six Nations matches and four pre-Christmas friendlies against Romania, Australia, Fiji and Argentina is estimated to be worth around €1 million a year, which appears a modest amount.

The magazine programme, however, which will start at around the New Year, is the attractive element from an IRFU perspective.

The union have wanted an program of this nature for some time, one that will enable various elements of Irish rugby to be aired in a fresh, upbeat way.

In addition, the IRFU are urging the Department of Communications not to list major events such as the Six Nations as "Jewels in the Crown".

The union want television rights left on the open market, primarily in order to fund grass-roots rugby.