As always in this game, there is no smoke without fire.
I don't doubt for a second that EI are looking at schemes such as this. They used to run one of the slickest cadet schemes around, and with recruitment lead times of approx 2 years via such routes - now is the time to start looking.
The one bit I don't see working is the cost. In the age of austerity, especially when Ireland is on the brink of bankruptcy itself, running a scheme so grossly overpriced just ridiculous.
Unless we have all missed the point here, and it is simply a way of lining the coffers of EI with FAS money?!?