Thanks Mark. I later found this very detailed post all about the bring forward date in case anyone else was interestedmarkstimson said:My understanding is that it means if they haven't got around to your application by then, the system flags your application for attention by a visa officer. They either start to work on it or assign a later bring forward date. It's supposed to ensure no application is missed.
canadavisa.com/canada-immigration-discussion-board/-t39705.0.html