The NRL has initiated a complaint process under its anti-vilification policy after Manly director Darrell Williams made an accusation of racism following a recent Sea Eagles board meeting.
Former New Zealand fullback Williams has claimed fellow director Rick Penn, who is the son of chairman Scott Penn, used a derogatory term during a meeting on April 4.
Williams contacted the NRL on Saturday evening and chief executive Dave Smith said the allegation would be taken very seriously.
“While this is on one view a governance issue within the Sea Eagles board, it is important that it is addressed as part of our anti vilification framework,” Smith said.
Under the policy, there is an initial conciliation phase which can involve the appointment of independent conciliator.
The NRL will approach the Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission for assistance in the process.