interesting you say that ib because for the sake of bahrainisation, i think gf will bring in decs.
why? a lot of the senior local f/os on the a320s without the required hours are at risk of being overtaken by junior expats who have the requirements. most of these nationals will need at the very least five years to be assessible.
bringing in contract decs stalls the progression process and 'buys' time (literally and figuratively) for the locals to get the requirements. they will fly through the hours (ahem mind the pun) and enabling the seniority to stay on course.
though i potentially will be at a loss, i'm a believer in a pure seniority system. it ain't perfect but the second best option is a far away second.