Funds to CIO are refunded before processing of application starts at Visa office. Quoting from CIC website
"What if I have already applied and want to withdraw my application? Can I get my money back?
You can contact your local visa office and withdraw your application. Your fee will be refunded as long as the office has not begun processing your application".
I got my AOR yesterday and today I asked for a refund.The Visa office said I should contact CIO.CIO said I should contact Visa office.I have contacted both.Infact,I am not sure how to contact CIO office.By email?