Well, the assumption there is that every P2F guy from Lion must necessarily be a bad pilot- that simply isn't so. Their average standard is probably lower, but that means fewer cut the mustard, not none.
While we have taken (a very few) such guys, we have also turned down many from majors and large LCCs because they can't pass the selection- and currently an RJ pilot, no matter how experienced, probably won't get an interview as we have sufficient applicants with time on Boeing and Airbi.
AC has the impression that there is something wrong with Ryanair pilots, because they are on a ****ty deal where they work (though he seems fine with US regional pilots who are on a MUCH ****tier deal).
Fact is, we have taken so many because they are that good. Whatever Ryan's shortcomings as an employer, they train well, and give their pilots great experience doing lots of sectors into challenging airports in a modern Jet.
EK loves the fact that they are a terrible employer, as it just makes them a free training ground for us.
I'm not disagreeing with much of the thrust of this thread, but the quality and availability of new-hires is not much of an issue at the moment.
I think that will change, but it hasn't yet.