Fcom,Crewsunite et al,
take a deep breath and relax. The decision to switch or not to switch to Cos 08 depended on many individual factors. Don't call somebody stupid because he or she did decide to switch, that isn't very respectful. For me, well above 40, I thought I rather accept (maybe) less money (= no bypass pay), but do have the security of RA 65 in return.
Will Cos99-pilots be able to continue beyond 55? Maybe, maybe not. I think your statements give away a hint of nervousness already, that is precisely what I didn't want to experience.But I can assure you I wish anybody on Cos 99 the best of luck, no hard feelings from my side, please stay as long as you can/want.
My guess is the company will those beyond 55 and willing to stay make to pay something ( reduced housing,benefits,pay, whatever), just not to loose face. Or you maybe lucky and just at the right time there will be a scarcity of qualified crew, who knows..