Hi 404 Titan,
For info I was offered an interview as a DEC for CX cargo, but I have changed my mind since I've applied for the position so I won't go!
YES! Cathay is employing DEC........if what you said is true, that is: they have existing suitably qualified FOs, why don't they upgrade those guys?
Don't you have a union in CX? That would be a very interesting question to ask them.
Regarding the labor law in China/HKG, do a search on the net and you will find out why CX is not worried about that!
Cheers....