Hey,Bro you’re right people at checkin counter not implying the rule fairly but that’s a sad reality. I was denied boarding at delhi airport by air india crew due to job letter. Even tho I showed them the proof of my old rental house and my new rental house but they still denied me boarding. Now the best course of action is to look for a job.For job offer letter one can get it from previous work place if you have good understanding with them.i also have in writing from the airline why i was denied boarding just In case i have to file an appeal for a owp extension at ircc.
Also in the same boat, was denied entry at airport inspite of having required documents. In your case did you show payslips from previous job because that should technically qualify as " normally stays in Canada"?