few years back they let 20 or so students go when they were over-staffed
You have quoted an event from 2003 or 2004 which was an emotive time.
The outcome was negotiated between the union and management.
Some were seconded elsewhere, the rest were furloughed.
All who were furloughed were back training within a year or so.
The rest bar 1 reentered employment when their external contracts were up
What's wrong with questioning the IAA?
Absolutely nothing that's your prerogative.
But like most things in life it all depends on your point of view.
Before you commence your glorious career in ATC I think you might need to revisit some of your assumptions.
Specifically ATC is a business not a charity.
It is a business and when unexpected downturns or traffic increases happen then they must and do take action.