Unless things change, or something happens... Little hiring over the next 1.5 years ( give or take) maybe a few for retirements, which aren't more that 10-15 in 2016....1.5 years will come quickly though.

In my personal opinion, and from a personal POV, I am looking for increases in FO pay package.. Although upgrade for me may be as early as year 7 ... It may also be year 9-11... So something that pays a comfortable wage and allows me to do the things I want ( as far as investing, saving) in exchange for a few extra years as an FO is a must...

Unfortunately as bad as it sounds, first year pay has never crossed my mind as a negotiating point... The company/union may wish to adjust it to attract resumes, but I don't view it as anything I would consider in my vote.