EI-BUD - It was still a ridiculous and expensive way of cutting costs at SNN. The anchor route thing is nonsense to be honest and as many others (more qualified than me) have said time and time again many poor decisions were made setting up Belfast and route selection was one...LHR was also already well served from BFS.
Aside from anything else, it is well documented that EI never approached the SAA think regarding costs previous to cutting the route...that should have been their first move..then pull the routes if discounts are not forthcoming. There are very few people that would consider the BFS/LHR/SNN episode good business practice in any situation.
Its pointless getting into this again, personally i just think its indicative of very poor management and planning across the board at EI