Slots would appear to be available for DE Expat Captains for 2 reasons.
1. No locals to satisfy both experience and training criteria to promote.
2. Shortage of "volunteers" to go A319 until we know what the new long haul airplane will be. Difference in monthly allowances between 2 fleets will be about $1500 on average. Hence, DE Captain vacancies on A319.
But beware, as soon as the locals are fit to promote and you are coming to the end of your contract..........!