I think jet grande has a very valid point.There's the letter of the law and the spirit of it!
No doubt these expats due for extensions must be aware of their t & c's.But do remember,a mercenary is not one by choice.A pilot,albiet a contractual one,always wants to grow his roots somewhere.And if one is due for retirment,thats probably where one would want to settle down post retirment.....
I think SIA should show maturity(as it always has),retain this experience,and build on it for its productive future.After all this downturn is'nt going to last forever......
My two cents worth.