West’s side flew out of the blocks in this year’s RBS 6 Nations, downing Italy 22-5 in the opening fixture of the tournament.

But after suffering a 19-9 defeat to France in Blois, Ireland’s chances of claiming the title were extinguished during a 22-5 crushing by England at Esher.

And West insists his side must prioritise the set-piece if they’re to avoid a premature end to their World Cup campaign later in 2010.

"We'll be focusing on the scrum for the rest of the Six Nations, but unfortunately we only get together the day before we play,” said West.

"It's an area that's already been highlighted to us and during the summer we've got intensive work to do on it, which we will do, especially as we have new girls coming in.

"Lauren Day was a number six so she's only just developing as a prop. We're aware of it and we're working with the girls.

"We take the Six Nations very seriously but we are building towards the World Cup and that is what's in front of us.”