Irish leader urges Ryanair chief to reflect on offensive rape remarks

During a press briefing, Taoiseach Micheál Martin criticised Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary’s recent statement that passengers would flee high-price airlines and flock to Ryanair, describing the competitors as "high-fare rapists". Martin said the comment downplayed the seriousness of rape and urged O’Leary to listen to women and reflect on his language. Rachel Morrogh, chief executive of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, had earlier called for an immediate apology, accusing O’Leary of trivialising the crime.

While Martin did not say whether an apology was required, he emphasized that men must be more mindful of how they speak about such violations. O’Leary defended his remarks as a comment on airline pricing, later reiterating the phrase but denying any intent to diminish the gravity of rape. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between corporate rhetoric and advocacy groups in Ireland.