Overview
- Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary issued a video apology saying he was “sincerely and unreservedly” sorry for using the phrase “high‑fare rapists.”
- Mr O'Leary had made the remark to reporters before Ryanair’s annual meeting and initially refused to apologise or accept training offered by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.
- The chief executive said conversations with family, friends and colleagues led him to recognise the “considerable upset and offence” his words caused.
- The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre welcomed the apology and said callers to its national helpline had increased after the comments; the helpline number is 1800 77 88 88.
- Beyond the apology, the episode raises unresolved questions about Ryanair’s reputation, staff relations and whether the company will adopt further steps such as awareness training.