The number doing the rounds over the next year or two, seems to range in the region of 150 direct entry pilots. I guess this depend on what happens with the open skies agreement, and what happens next with Ryanair and their anticipated renewed take-over bid
The management are now talking about bases outside Dublin, so that will obviously increase numbers. However, the LRC this week allowed the company the concession to pay local rates at local bases.
They have been recruiting experienced/type rated guys from the likes of Monach, Easy, Eirjet (RIP) and Ryanair. However, they have also taken on people recently with just a frozen ATPL. There is only a finite supply of type rated guys, so after that if your the right person for the job, then your in!