Cowen has been found sadly wanting over the last 12 months

RYANAIR chief executive Michael O’Leary has launched a scathing attack on the Government but pledged his support for a yes vote on the Lisbon treaty referendum.

The airline boss yesterday criticised Taoiseach Brian Cowen’s leadership of the country, branding his cabinet “incompetent” as he declared that Ryanair will actively campaign for a yes vote on October 2.

Mr O’Leary said he had been a long-standing supporter of Mr Cowen but was highly disappointed at his lacklustre leadership.