Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary is facing backlash after referring to competing airlines as "high-fare rapists." The comments were made during a press briefing held ahead of the company's annual shareholder meeting. When questioned by reporters regarding the appropriateness of his choice of words, O'Leary maintained his stance, stating he would "happily offend" carriers such as British Airways and Lufthansa.
The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) formally requested an apology, with Chief Executive Rachel Morrogh noting that the organization had received reports of distress from sexual assault survivors following the remarks. Morrogh suggested that O'Leary undergo training regarding the impact of sexual violence, arguing that the term was used "flippantly."
In a written response, O'Leary rejected the request for an apology and declined the offer for training. He asserted that his comments did not "trivialise the heinous crime of rape," despite acknowledging that rape is a "terrible crime."
The remarks have drawn criticism from political figures. Ireland’s deputy premier, Simon Harris, described the language as "clearly an inappropriate use of language" and suggested that O'Leary should have taken steps to rectify the situation. Additionally, UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander remarked on LBC radio that the comments were unlikely to encourage victims of sexual assault to book flights with the airline.
This is not the first instance of O'Leary using such terminology; he previously referred to Stansted Airport owners as "overcharging rapists" during a 2004 dispute. The executive has a history of controversial public statements, including past remarks directed at his own staff and passengers seeking refunds.
Source: BBC News
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