Oleary couldn't agree more and we have the same problems with operations people regarding competency and experience and some of them never get there either.
My conundrum in this instance is a company asking for permission to bring in new pilots on our contracted aircraft and without having any knowledge of the people, their capabilities or flying skills I have to decide to approve or not. Recently I have been made more aware of the decision making process because the same company has been trying to replace very experienced expats with local cadets fresh out of training which makes me very nervous obviously.
Its the same thought process when someone comes to me with an operational risk assessment that perhaps hasn't been properly thought through, I usually challenge them with " would you ask your children to do that job " likewise I have to think would I put my people in the helicopter with this guy because they are just as precious as my family are.
Anyway appreciate everyone's input and safe landings to all.
B.G