Revolt at Ryanair as shareholders target long-serving board kingpins

Michael O’Leary insists his job is still fun despite the airline’s recent woes. But will he stick around for another five years if his contract is renewed in 2019?

All a bit of a laugh: Michael O’Leary addresses shareholders at Ryanair’s agm in the CityNorth Hotel, Co Meath last Thursday, as board members Emer Daly, David Bonderman and Kyran McLaughlin look on All pictures: Maura Hickey

Hell hath no fury like the media scorned! As journalists assembled outside the City North Hotel and Conference Centre in Co Meath last Thursday morning, the talk among those huddled in the cold was about the unprecedented decision to ban journalists from Ryanair’s annual general meeting.

Several media groups had bought shares, borrowed votes and even spent money staying in the venue overnight to attempt to gain access. In the end, it was ...