Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary's comments at a Fine Gael campaign event, criticizing the number of teachers in the Dáil, have sparked widespread backlash. O'Leary suggested that more individuals from the private sector, rather than teachers, are needed in politics to tackle Ireland's challenges, which he claims teachers are ill-suited for. His remarks, met with laughter at the event, were condemned by Taoiseach Simon Harris, who labeled them 'crass and ill-informed,' and by other political leaders and teacher unions as demeaning and insulting. Fine Gael members, including Enterprise Minister Peter Burke, have distanced themselves from O'Leary's statements, with Burke expressing disagreement despite acknowledging O'Leary's business acumen. The controversy has overshadowed the initial stages of the general election campaign, forcing Fine Gael to manage the fallout as opposition parties criticize their perceived stance on public servants. O'Leary has stood by his comments, reiterating the need for diversity and more business-oriented individuals in the Dáil.