Fine Gael must reject O’Leary’s endorsement

Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik TD today condemned recent comments by Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary, who doubled down on his claim that teachers “aren’t capable of getting things done.”

Deputy Bacik said:

“Fine Gael must unequivocally distance themselves from O’Leary and reject his endorsement, following a wave of outrage from teachers, parents, and communities across Ireland.

“Michael O’Leary’s repeated attack on teachers has crossed a line. To undermine the dedication of teachers in our society is unacceptable. Worse again, he has now doubled down on those comments. Many parents and teachers across Ireland are rightly horrified by this rhetoric. Education is the foundation of a better society, and teachers are essential to that vision.

“Watching the original clip, where Mr. O’Leary’s comments were met with laughter and jeering, was particularly jarring. This tone has no place in a discussion about the future of our schools and communities. Fine Gael must do more than distance themselves—they need to make it clear that they reject his endorsement, particularly as he has now gone further and restated his attack, and crossed the threshold of decency in politics.

“The communities we meet are taken aback by Mr. O’Leary’s comments, particularly parents who see first-hand the work that teachers do every day. For many, education is a lifeline for our children and for the future of our society. These comments not only insult our teachers but dismiss the hopes and ambitions we hold for our young people.

“Now, more than ever, we need leadership that recognises and respects the work of our public servants. Particularly when we have such a recruitment and retention issue in the teaching sector.

“We call on Fine Gael to make a clear, public rejection of Mr. O’Leary’s endorsement and to prioritise the values of decency and respect in our public discussions.

“Fine Gael must make it clear whose side they are on. Labour are firmly and unequivocally on the side of teachers.”