Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary has formally apologized for referring to competing airlines as "high-fare rapists." The executive, who initially defended the remarks, released a video statement expressing regret after facing criticism for the impact of his language on survivors of sexual violence.
The controversy began earlier this month when O'Leary, speaking to journalists before a shareholder meeting, used the term to characterize the pricing structures of carriers such as British Airways and Lufthansa. When questioned at the time about the appropriateness of the phrasing, O'Leary maintained his stance, stating he would "happily offend" rival airlines and denying that his comments trivialized sexual assault.
The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) subsequently contacted O'Leary, reporting that the comments had caused distress to victims of sexual violence. DRCC chief executive Rachel Morrogh urged the airline boss to apologize and offered him training on the subject, noting that the organization had received calls from upset survivors. At that stage, O'Leary declined the offer and refused to issue an apology.
In his recent video, O'Leary acknowledged that his choice of words was "careless" and caused "considerable upset and offence." He stated that conversations with friends and family prompted him to reconsider his position. "I want to apologise, sincerely and unreservedly, to those people, especially to the survivors," he said, adding that he intends to learn from the incident.
O'Leary has a history of making provocative remarks regarding his business operations. He previously used similar language regarding airport charges in 2004 and has faced criticism for past comments directed at his own staff and passengers seeking refunds.
Source: BBC News
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