It's a proven fact of life, that people looking in from the outside, generally haven't a clue as to what is actually happening inside. thebrother just happens to be another one of these people. He may have have been a former employee of Aer Lingus, but he certainly hasn't a clue about the Flight Ops side of the company.
Even before the whole issue of Privatisation raised it's head again this year, the company was heading for problems due to its insistence of a supposed pilot surplus. There is a major shortage of pilots, hence the belated attempt to entice the cadets back. A few have been working for Ryanair, Cityjet and Aer Arran, but most have been working for others. Some have even resigned from BA to return home. Not surprising, when you look at the conditions elsewhere. We might be working upto the flight time limitations nowadays, but at least we have a decent salary, the best pension in the business and one base. Command at Ryanair might sound great, but as those in the industry know - this comes at a price!
I'd love to know how thebrother thinks were going to be 'binning' our seniority agreement! This is the cornerstone of our working life. It affects our pay, working conditions etc.. Flight Ops priority is to crew up the A330, taking into account the new aircraft arrivals. These will be crewed in seniority. Any new recruits cadets or otherwise will end up on the A320/1. Period!
As regards wandering around Dublin with a funny hat and a worthless A330 rating - don't make me laugh. Apart from the fact the the A330 is one of the best ratings anyway, being able to be CCQ in a short time makes it even more attractive. There are loads of jobs out there for A330 type rated guys now. Not that many EI guys would be bothered going elsewhere though - non of us could afford the drop in pay or working conditions. And don't even mention the pension side of things. Thank god we have IALPA and not BALPA looking after our pension.
Finally, I'd love to know how they are going to 'bend or ignore the IAA on this issue'. Whilst the IAA might have a less than perfect reputation. They aren't complete idiots! Unlike some people making anonymous contributions on this forum!