IFR GA is under threat because no one has been taking up the IR because of the difficulty in getting it. The FAA my be easier to access but the hassle of accessing an N-Reg aircraft still exists. The serious IFR tourer owns and aircraft and are prepared to put it in trust to use the rights.
If the IR was more available to the average flyer it will give more impetuous to the renters to demand IFR capable aircraft from the schools/clubs. There are many knock on benefits from increasing the numbers of IR holders.
GA is still run by the old shirts but times are a changing. It is much better to get involved and try and change from the inside rather than just bitching about it and expecting the problem to solve itself. I am sufficiently outspoken to get my opinions across and not be walked on by the old shirts!
It is quite funny to arrive in Jeans and shirt around the suits......
