Most of the sim instructors dont actually hold ME/IR's, and through some bizarre loop can instruct in the sim
How long ago was it when you where there, I have just finished in the sim today, and maybe I have been lucky because I have had 3 instructors during this phase and all 3 are fATPL and in the position a lot of instructors are in i.e building hours to move onwards and upwards.
1 failed interview recently with FR and another has progressed through 1st stage of selection with a Spanish airline but cant remember company he said.
I will feedback when I start in aircraft on monday, not heard any bad stories from the couple of UK/Eire guys that are on this phase already.