Yes just because pilots at EK supposedly knew about DECs doesn't make it right to still hire them, especially now.
Almost every single FO at EK has had their upgrade delayed by DECs weather they knew it or not.
On just about every occasion when the company hired DECs in the past it wasn't necessary and probably pre-planned. The same can be said for the present scenario times 10. Through the company actions or lack of actions the company is relying on DECs bailing them out again. Can't wait to see the what kind of experience the company will be attracting.
Is Emirates hiring Turbo-Prop DECs next?