Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary apologises over 'high-fare rapists' remarks
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Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has said he is "truly sorry" for describing rival airlines as "high-fare rapists". He had previously refused to apologise to a rape crisis centre which criticised him for the comments.
O'Leary had made the remark earlier this month while talking to journalists ahead of Ryanair's yearly meeting with shareholders. Following the comments, the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) wrote to him asking for an apology.
Originally, O'Leary said: "Some people are desperate to get to Ryanair's low fares because they can't afford to fly with the high-fare rapists around Europe." He later defended his choice of words when asked by a reporter whether the language was appropriate.
In a video posted on Friday, O'Leary stated that he had "had conversations with family and friends" over the last ten days, which led him to realise "that the word I used so carelessly has caused considerable upset and offence to a wide number of people, especially to victims and survivors." He subsequently apologised "sincerely and unreservedly," adding: "I will try to learn from this mistake, and do better in future."
O'Leary's initial comments were criticised by the DRCC's chief executive, who accused him of trying to generate headlines. The centre received calls from rape victims who were "upset and distressed" because of his remarks.