Whirls i think your being a bit harsh on Irish Steve. I can see where he is coming from.
As we both know and i am presuming the heli FIC is similar to the fixed FIC. THe course only gives you the tools of the trade in there most simplistic form.
After that you are restricted this is ment to be a period of mentored on the job training. With the unrestricted instructors passing on their words of wisdom when questions are asked.
Now in the current method of qualifying the through put of FI's is relativly high in the Fixed wing world with most FI's moving on before they hit 1000hrs instructing and alot of cases below 500hrs. The people with the people skills, ability to adapt etc are the ones the airlines want they go quicker.
So from the Unrestricted instructor training the restricted instructor is getting a lower level of mentoring than before.
All the methods and standards are currently enforced by word of mouth and preffered methods by individuals. And the people who are suffering for this are the PPL's. Who are avoiding flights with instructors because they really can't be bothered with the ear ache and work thats involved.
MJ