I'm puzzled by this story because, under the exact same circumstances (at EDI, flying to DUB, on FR, 2 hour weather-related delay, hand baggage only, still at gate, meeting long gone) I was allowed deplane, with the minimum of fuss. This was about two years ago.

In fact, now I think about it, my mum did this about 6 months ago when the late departure to Dublin (about 2230) was going to be delayed until after midnight. I was on the phone to her and saw that a flight the next day (on EI) was about £30, so she got off the plane, came back to our house and stayed an extra night.

Like others have recommended, I'd write to the CAA pointing out amongst your own greivances, the inconsistency. PM if you need details. There is no point in complaining to Ryanair, they pin the angriest letters on a staff noticeboard (I've seen it).