I was following Mics thread over on HAL but I restrained myself from getting involved knowing Mic is a smart bloke who can look after himself. His initial post was fairly innocous but it certainly caused some to get their knickers in a twist.
FYI Mic, my last four cruises have been HAL, two pre and two post COVID on four different HAL ships.
I have noticed a difference in service, mainly, fewer servers trying hard to maintain HAL's previously high standard. I have always done my-time dining on HAL and have no complaints at all. Since COVID, I feel service has become a little slower but that suits me (and my cruising companions) as we like sharing tables and it allows time for easy, interesting and relaxed conversation with other diners.