Gees! enough ancient history guys. Get over it or start up another thread where you can dwell on the nastier side of our industry and we don't have to be involved. Please!
EK may be short of crew (they are yet to admit it) and would probably jump at the opportunity to pick up 60 experienced crew but it would be on their terms. Employing another airlines crew for a couple of years just would not be attractive to them. No unions over here and that is how they will want to keep it.
They could get many, many more pilots by simply starting bases up around their network. You would also have to provide a copy of your letter of termination from your previous employer before they let you sign on as well.
Employing such a group and basing them in NZ or OZ or where ever, would also create a huge problem with the NZ and OZ expats over here who are desperate to go home.
However, nothing surprizes me over here anymore. Just like driving on the roads here, expect the unexpected all the time and you could be right.