As you are no doubt aware, the Essendon Board has been working through a process to fully understand the circumstances relating to the events of last week.

The Board is of the view that ongoing publicity is detrimental to the Club, the players, the on-field prospects of the Club this year and the Essendon Football Club’s relationship with the AFL industry generally.

The board and management have all worked extremely hard to keep our football club focused on the future. The success of the initiatives implemented over the past six months has been very encouraging.

As chairman, I marvel at the resilience of our talented playing group led by Jobe Watson, who have endured immense pressure during this time, yet remain driven to achieve their on field goals and this was clearly demonstrated with our opening round win against North Melbourne last Friday night.

In addition, I am very enthused by the quality of the management team and coaching staff now in place, all of whom are highly motivated and all of whom are doing excellent work to take us forward.

The culture of the club is now one of transparency, accountability, enhanced values and renewed optimism.

The interests of the Essendon Football Club must remain greater than those of any one individual, and remain the focal point of our combined endeavours.

For these reasons, we as a Board were extremely disappointed at the recent commentary aired in the 7.30 Report last Thursday night and the resulting media, that continues to be a distraction and at the same time generates unnecessary stress on the players, coaches and staff.

During the last week we have spent a significant amount of time speaking with James and Tania with particular emphasis on the events of last week. It is clear to the Board that the Hird family sincerely regret the unintended significant distraction this has caused for our Club.

Equally, the Board understands the strain and pressure the Hird family has been under for more than a year – James and Tania have endured a great deal during this time not the least of which has been the unrelenting media attention.

The Board has sought assurances from James and Tania in relation to future conduct the Club deems appropriate under James’ contract of employment.

Following these discussions, James understands and is in agreement with the terms of his employment with the Essendon Football Club. The club and James have discussed very clear parameters and expectations moving forward around actions deemed to be in the best interests of the Essendon Football Club.

Today, the Board determined that James Hird remains the coach for the Essendon Football Club during 2015 and 2016.

There is no ambiguity about this decision and correctly, the Board will always act in the best interests of the Essendon Football Club at all times.

I thank you once again for your support of our club through your membership. It is so important and is very much appreciated by the board, coaches, players and staff.