The JAA v FAA IR debate again....
EASA is not going to do anything for a few years, and by then the whole process might collapse anyway, amid top-level protests and huge controversy.
If you want to fly IFR now,
and can go to the USA to do the whole lot, do that. You will have an IR for a fraction of what it costs to fly 50/55hrs via a "professional" FTO here, especially if doing ME at eye watering piston twin rates over here.
Buy an N-reg plane but make sure it is EASA compliant right now (if buying new get this in writing so you can sue the dealer later
).
The worst case scenario is that you have to do the JAA IR one day but the min dual time will be just 15hrs which is a massive cost saving over 50/55hrs.
The 7 JAA IR exams are not avoidable but an ICAO IR means you don't have mandatory school attendance (ref LASORS).
One has to live for NOW and not spend years wondering the options and being scared of regulators. There is always a cloud on the horizon in this business.
Care to elaborate IO540?
No wish to get another filthy xmas present like the last one