Ryan Air is a low cost airline, where pilots and cabin crew are paid to fly. This is what I was told at the interview and this is what I did when I flew for them. As an FO I was averaging 92 hrs a month and raking in £3700 net. All flights were on time, actually most of them were 10' early. I must admit it was hard work but you get into the rhythm after a couple of months. However, I do believe 3-5 years is the most you can go at that pace. It's very good to build experience and the pilots are all very professional and from over 40 countries.
Considering other LCC in Europe Ryan Air is probably the best, followed by easyjet & Air Berlin. When I say best I mean weighing up flight time and the money you actually take home. The 5 on 3 off roster was also a good thing and I know there aren't many airlines that have a system like that.
I have met many people that bad mouth Ryan Air, interestingly none of them have ever worked for Ryan Air. So if you are thinking of joining SPEAK TO SOMEONE WHO WORKS FOR THEM!!!