For some clarity on the whole will they/won't they get another airbus issue - I think the point is being missed. The company have not recruited pilots to only fly the Airbus wholly owned by themselves. In fact, that is only a side issue.
The intention is that the entire Shamrock operation from Gatwick will now be crewed by AEU crew. This will consist of those recruited directly for the purpose and those working for Shamrock already. Therefore the extent of recent recruitment has been to crew all current and immediate future Shamrock Airbus' based at LGW.
The Airbus on AEU books is joining the ad hoc fleet. Whether this aircraft will also join in on the Shamrock operation remains to be seen.