Is FR still not employing anyone after the Oct course?
Speaking of "packages" that is totally correct. Apparently FR pilots does not get any water, crew food, snacks at all during the long working days either. I heard a rumour many years ago that staff was not even aloud to charge their mobile at work due to the elec bill...
Depending on contract, you get a salary incl or excl tax too. No pension payed either. Or social security. So I guess its really up to you how to count and how you want to build up your future. Putting money under your bed has always its risks too though..