So when I get that RA job, do I have to have a high and tight marine hair cut too? That guy looked 16!

The low pay is a huge concern for several reasons. First is that airlines with such low pay can only recruit those willing to work for poverty. They aren't looking for the best pilots, just the ones that can work for what they offer. There is a reason why netjets pays what they do, to attract better employees.
Then not having enough money for proper food is also an issue. Eating McDonalds day in and day out isn't brain food. We all know that eating a proper meal at the airport is expensive. Poor food = Poor Performance = Poor Safety.
Lets not forget the financial worries that being a father of 3.
And the low pay can be traced to even the smallest level but nevertheless a contributing part.

Not intentionally. But having a second job or commuting from someplace they can afford to live takes away from the total rest time. More exhausted means more mistakes.

the ultimate kicker is that the brits are doing this about american regionals...

wheres the american media?

Busy scaring the world with Swine Flu

About time safety at the regionals got looked at.