Unfortunately nobody ever promised that cases would be processed in order. I do understand that it is very frustrating. It seems like the system was overwhelmed and in an attempt to try and improve the system files got left behind in the old process because they had already started to be processed this way. The legacy files from 2012 have almost all been resolved so they have definitely been waiting the longest. While waiting Canada does provide work permits, healthcare, welfare, shelter for many, language courses, etc. This would not be the case in many other countries. Although I am sure it is frustrating to wait there is a lot of opportunity to get a job, integrate, learn English/French, etc.