The IRFU have announced it will shut down its men’s sevens set-up at the end of this season. They have released a statement saying the decision has been made "to ensure long-term financial sustainability" for Irish rugby. This comes 10 months on from Ireland making history by having a women’s and men’s sevens team at the Paris Olympics. The Women's Sevens programme will remain operational. In a statement from the IRFU, they have said: “The financial situation we face is challenging, and it’s crucial that we take decisive action to secure the long-term success of Irish Rugby. “While the decision to end the Men’s Sevens programme is a difficult one, it is necessary in order to ensure that our resources are focused on the areas that will have the greatest impact on the future of the game in Ireland. "We are committed to making sure that this transition is handled with the utmost respect for all those who have contributed to the success of the Sevens programme. "The decision follows the findings of a review conducted by World Rugby and an additional IRFU-commissioned Portas review. The Union’s assessment concluded that the Men’s Sevens programme does not contribute as a development pathway for the 15s game, with current academy structures in place within the provinces offering greater development opportunities for Men’s rugby. "In contrast, the IRFU has confirmed that the Women’s Sevens programme will remain operational as a key development pathway for the Women’s 15s programme. "The Union’s ambition in its strategic plan is to accelerate the development of the Women’s game and believe that the Sevens programme, which plays a vital role in the development of female players is currently aligned with the growing strength of the Women’s 15s game in Ireland. IRFU CEO Kevin Potts adds: “We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of the Men’s Sevens programme, especially in achieving qualification for the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games. "Their unwavering dedication, hard work and skill played a vital role in elevating the profile of Sevens rugby in Ireland. We are very proud of everything that was achieved during this period.”