JAR-FCL 1.250 -
(a) Pre-requisite conditions for training:
An applicant for the first type rating for a multi- pilot aeroplane type shall:
(1) have at least 100 hours as pilot-in-command of aeroplanes;
(2) have a valid multi-engine instrument rating (A);
JAR-FCL 1.185 -
(a) An IR(A) is valid for one year.
Seems to me that a valid and current MEIR is a pre-requisite for training for a first MPA type rating