They could drop it but they are probably reluctant to do so due to security reasons. It's so much easier to screen people with their fingerprints and I do think they do not want to go back to the old fashioned approach. I mean it's a double-edged sword now due to the pandemic, they can process your security check faster with your biometrics; however, we are not able to give our biometrics right now. If I were IRCC, I would focus on working with Service Canada to re-open biometrics for only permanent residence applicants until further notice. Temporary residence applicants are currently exempt. I never understood the point of giving biometrics for temporary residence and permanent residence applications separately. I mean it is linked to our UCIs, passport number, and etc already, it would be hard for someone to commit identity fraud. Worst case scenario, they can at least process PR applications with the biometrics submitted for old work permit/study permit applications.