I doubt the decision to hire DEFOs is tied to the salary negotiations. They only concern pay and no other term of the contract(s).
It would more likely be triggered by their forecast pilot need and whether they can fill that with whatever Cadets are desperate enough to sign and upgrades. DEFO and DEC hiring triggers a big headache for everyone...
Anyway, good luck.
Can't wait to fly with such a great bunch!
Yeah... that.