I'm not going to suggest that the industry is perfect as a result of the low-costs. However, competition in the industry has ultimately been good for the consumer. Would you want to go back to the old "cartel" days where national carriers carved up the routes and charged a fortune?
Ultimately the 'low-cost' model will become the 'norm' for many routes where the full high-cost option simply isn't viable. Congestion and slot value at the likes of LHR will ensure retention of much of the "traditional" model, but outside LHR / London (let's use the North-West as a good example) the traditional carriers will withdraw (or already have), or adjust the product to suit. The product difference between BA Connect, MON, EZY, etc. is narrowing all the time.
And with the current fuel cost, the £30 fare isn't sustainable forever.....but even if in 2 years time we're discussing the "£60 fare" as being the norm, it's still a lot better for the consumer than the situation 15 years ago.
As for your daughter, a shame if she's impacted within a carrier that cannot justify retaining her......but look at the growth of the business over the years. Assuming she's based at LGW, I have no doubt she can pursue employment in an orange uniform if she wanted.