Re: Outland Dependent Child - Timeline
They have begun trying to clear the backlog of parent/grandparent (PGP) files. Up until late last year, they had only gotten as far as processing applications received in 2007. In November, once they paused PGP sponsorship for 24 months, CPC-M had to start dedicating more resources to clearing the backlog of files in that stream of Family Class. That left fewer resources for Spouses/Dependent Children, so even though these are normally prioritized, the timeline has begun extending for the processing of these applications.
With the upcoming changes to the PGP stream, they have to clear the backlog to make way for applications under the revamped scheme. It could be worse: for Skilled Workers, thousands of applications were legislated out of existence, and people waiting for up to 4 years have been told "Sorry, here's your money back, try again (maybe)."