Hey
@armoured ! Since you're probably one of the most learned members here, would you be able to opine on the IRCC process - as in why is September and October untouched when it comes to AORs, while November seems to be picked ahead of us ? Good luck to all and nothing against anyone, but an understanding of why first come first serve isn't being applied would at least help make some sense of the situation.
Unfortunately all I have is guesses.
A big general point that I think is easy to overlook - there are lots of other programs (immigration, tRV, and citizenship) that are all having problems now. And most of those looking at these forums aren't noticing or seeing what's happening with those programs.
As well as whole-of-government issues - ie there are things coming up with covid that IRCC / CBSA are also probably partially being pulled into.
As far as family sponsorship, my guess is that they're constantly re-arranging which offices do what and moving 'piles of files' when there seems to be too many built up at another. And that when they have surprises - like some offices located in lockdown - they move the next batch to another office somewhere.
Combine with this that they seem to be moving some parts of process to more fully on-line / electronic but this process is nowhere near complete.
Short form; they're trying to redesign the airplane (or ship if you prefer)while it's flying and also being shot at, with new damage all the time.
And their likely has been some decision that trying to 'catch up' and restore the order of which files are done in which order bears the risk of slowing things down overall - making things worse. And that if the attempt to do so, surprises due to covid might mean considerable loss of time.
This may not be very 'fair' from perspective of those in the family sponsorship path - but to be honest, I'm not sure I'd make a different decision (if faced with the same issues).
This is all only speculation.
Note, I am not arguing that it's being handled well or that the right decisions are made - but I also do't see or know the constraints tjat they face.
I am also quite certain that some of the decisions I would make from what has been done would be very unpopular in certain circles - everyone has their own opinions and interests. I'm not a politician so I don't have to be popular. That said, I'm surprised that govt did not cancel the Parents and Grandparents program.