Enzo999 sums up the confusion over Ryanair. Yes cadets dont get many things because they are contractors. However all is not as it seems.
Being contractors works for 'them' as most dont pay much if any tax (legit) for the first few years while they claim their training costs back via expenses.
As soon as the the training costs dry up and the tax starts kicking in they apply for a Ryanair contract - smart move.
If they can get one and when on a permanent contract they get a pilots allowance to cover LOL/PHC/Medical etc
Not sure what it is for FOs but UK Capts get £6000pa to cover all the above. Thats money is yours to do what you with. As far as FR is concerned you can get on a flight to Vegas with the missus and lob it all on black they dont care its just comes into your salary every month.
Of course now being being FR employees they get Paid Holiday/Sick Pay and enrol in the company pension.
With no seniority, good quality training, interesting route network and new planes, a command is in the offing after 3000 hours if they are up to it or its gained them enough experience to go and play with BA's, Emirates or China Southerns train sets which is where most seem to go.
Ryanair is not perfect but its a foot in the door and better than a kick in the balls.
Short term pain for long term gain - possibly somewhere else.
Ps trying to be balanced if thats possible in a Ryanair thread.