Pin Head,
There are over 120 F/Os on the command waiting list as of 21/11/11. plus quite a few more going through development flights and assessment.
I don't think there were many takers for the LIS base because of the temporary contract and poor pay and conditions, which is why they are after DECs for these posts. By having different contracts all over europe and using contractors, it allows them to divide and conquer, making us more like ryanair, reducing BALPAs influence and driving down crew costs at the same time as pretending to magic us happy with "merlin" project. (Sorry for negative attitude)