As you say Flaps One, the goal posts will move to suit the supply of candidates. At least Easy have the decency to tell us about their policy before the fact.
I had an experience with BMI regional/Business Air which I have manked and moaned about on Pprune in the past. In short they told me I was short listed, and when I called to confirm the interview date I was told I was no longer on the shortlist becuse I had been interviewed 4 years before. And they confirmed that they wouldn't have told me that at the time, but, no they wouldn't interview then or ever in the future.
So, whilst I doubt easy are perfect, despite their high morals, and good intentions, and whilst I agree that this particular e-mail is patronising, and will do the company few favours, at least they have been up front about it. My only concern is that they will deny themselves the services of a few very good guys, but then if their system is so good, maybe they have some discretionary flexibility....