It's an interesting discussion as ever, although starting to creep away from original Just Culture question.
I'd just like to come back on a few points. Firstly, regarding Splash' comment about Air Safety, my understanding is that Air Safety = Flight Safety + Airworthiness + All the other new MAA stuff. I remember when DASC was formed it was all about Aviation Safety = FS + AW, but whilst it was a nice idea the reality was somewhat different.
In terms of independence, perhaps a radical approach is for the European Defence Agency to assume an EASA type role, at least in terms of airworthiness.
Finally, to come back to Just Culture. Normally, it is considered in the personal sense but I think more needs to be done to consider Just Culture in the organisational context. When organisational failings are identified then there should also be a way to hold parts of an organisation to account for deliberately breaking rules.
Sorry, too many points in one message but hopefully you get my drift.