Ulster Rugby have been bolstered with the news that former Irish International Kieron Dawson has signed a contract which will see him remain at Ravenhill until the end of the 2008/09 season.

Flanker Kieron Dawson joined Ulster Rugby at the start of the 2006-07 season from London Irish. Dawson, who is originally from Bangor in Co. Down and a graduate of Queens University, joined London Irish in 1996 having previously played rugby for Bangor, and played over 190 matches for London Irish.

Kieron has 21 Irish caps, making his debut against the All-Blacks in November 1997 and was part of Ireland's 1999 Rugby World Cup Squad. He has also been capped at Ireland A, U21, Students and Schools levels and played for the Barbarians in 2003-04 season.

Commenting on his new contract Dawson said, "I am very pleased and honoured to be offered the opportunity to continue playing with the Ulster squad for another season. I have thoroughly enjoyed the last few months under Matt and Steve Williams and believe that as a squad we have turned a corner and will have a highly successful end of season run.

"I am looking forward to next season with renewed optimism and feel that I can still contribute a great deal to Ulster Rugby. Competition for places will be very tough with some hugely talented back-row forwards like David Pollock, Chris Henry and Thomas Anderson coming through, but I feel that my experience can be of value to a young squad.

"I still get a real buzz when I pull on the white jersey and love to play at Ravenhill, so I am very proud to continue my career at Ulster."

Ulster Coach Matt Williams was also pleased at the news, adding, "Kieron is a great pro with a career full of experience and good leadership skills; he brings a lot to the team especially the younger players like David Pollock. Kieron has been in great form over the last few games and I am just delighted that he has committed to Ulster."