Isn't their a helpline I can call? or do I have to go through MLA?
You can call the call centre, their details are on the IRCC website, the ‘Contact Us’ webpage. The numbers differ if you’re in North America, or in the rest of the world. Also on that webpage is the ability to send a case specific enquiry. I’m not sure how successful that would be though, without a UCI or application number.
Outland applications that are being processed between Mississauga, ON and Sydney, NS seem to have been subject to delays in receiving AOR. I’ve just noticed a few people stating this in various threads, so it’s only anecdotal. I don’t think there’s a recognized problem there yet. 12 weeks is quite a long to time to wait for AOR, so I understand your frustration. IRCC don’t give any specific timescale for this as far as I’m aware. Problem applications seem to get sent back quite quickly though, so hopefully your application is in order, just haven’t had official acknowledgement yet.
Contact IRCC and good luck.