Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary says Ireland needs nuclear power, but not near his estate

Outspoken airline chief suggests Wexford as possible site and says he can provide the land

Michael O'Leary at Ryanair's HQ in Swords. Photo: Steve Humphreys

John Mulligan

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary says the country will need to build a nuclear power plant to make sure Ireland has enough electricity, but he doesn’t want one built near his Gigginstown estate in Co Westmeath. The airline chief previously voiced his opposition to plans for wind farms near his home.

While the use of nuclear power has been opposed for a long time in Ireland, the country will be importing nuclear-generated electricity from France within a couple of years.