Splat
I certainly agree with what you're saying. I was surprised to hear the talk of DECs. I can only see it happening if the current rate of progression continues for another 6 months or so. While there are F/O's with the ATPL requirements, there's not an abundance with decent experience (like yourself), and as MOR said there is a danger of thinning out the experience of captains just to satisfy the union.
I think you have to be vary carefull taking on inexperienced F/Os and upgrading them with less than 12 months service.