Edit : although I do agree that concept of the EIR is quite ridiculous - it effectively gives the EIR holder the same privileges as the PPL holder throughout most of the world! - I would imagine most EIR holders (assume former IMCR holders) will simply descend through IMC to do a VFR approach? Surely the muppets at EASA realise that!?
I'm not a supporter of the EIR, as I think it's dangerous. However in fairness to it, it does offer far greater privileges than a non-UK PPL holder; it allows flight in IMC under IFR above a certain MSA. No basic PPL holder has those privileges.
What's the cost/hassle factor in renewing a JAA IR annually?
It it required to be renewed annually under ICAO, or is that a Euro invention?