Here, here, absolutely, there are guys on the waiting list 10 yrs, the rating shouldn't matter a jot.
Loads of guys have had the LHR temp base hanging over their heads for 6 yrs, these guys have persevered with the terrible system that's in place only to have pay to fly guys take their place, the point that I make is that EVEN someone like me who is hear only 5 mins to quote konspiracy, should be considered before these outside recruits.
No one in their right mind would argue that the loyalty shown by the long term regional guys who want this transfer shouldn't be rewarded before anyone else.
The fact is being part of regional is definitely a blocker towards these jobs, rating or no rating.
No matter how long any pilot with regional or baby is with the companies these jobs should have been transparently advertised internally first and those who wanted to apply could have and went through the process FAIRLY.