Hmm, but don't forget that these 'components' (Parc, Brookfields, Ryanair) are nevertheless channels through which a new fATPL can still have a fighhting chance to get that first job. Indeed you might well have to pay your way but then again if the demand is there why shouldn't they charge a reasonable fee for administering the whole process. They are not a government funded body there to assist new wannabes to onto the first rung of the ladder, if they were they'd be a darn sight worse for sure! (2 year waiting list, all of the budget spent on a lousy IT system).
The extra simulator hours are debatable perhaps you need them, maybe you don't but for any prospective job you can't and shouldn't take any chances. Even if you fail to get that job at least you have learned something and with that extra training know you're prepared for the next hurdle.
We would all like to go through life with the minimum of cost and fuss but when embarking on something so strategic we can't afford to be so lean in our preparations. There are ample opportunities for us to fall short and then wonder "why didn't I just take the more conservative route instead of a chancey shortcut, what was the rush?". Of course this doesn't work for everyone but it all boils down to what you can afford to loose, time, money, opportunity, esteem, etc?
Good luck chaps and all the best
