So, I'm closing in on 24 months waiting for my PAL/RPAL being approved. I passed both practical courses and written with 98% each. I filled out my application honestly and even included that I had a peace bond issued to me 3 years ago (from time of taking the course) and if they had any questions to contact me. I call in monthly to my local (BC) CFO, and I'm told the CFO has it, They're swamped with applications, it's gone off for additional screening, it shouldn't be much longer please be patient, etc. etc. So I emailed the CCFR to see if they have any suggestions. They suggested I try to contact my local MP, which I had already done. They suggested if email doesn't work, to try showing up in person. If talks with my local MP don't work out, then I could take the RCMP to court. I asked what I would take them to court over. This was their response:
"The legal action would be an application called Mandamus, literally a court order to the RCMP to do their statutory duty/government function (in this case giving you a decision on your PAL application instead of continuing to sit on it). You would need an administrative law lawyer, or a senior civil litigator, in your jurisdiction for this. Hopefully an in-person visit to your MP’s office will be fruitful and you can avoid having to resort to legal measures. This is why we need an ombudsman for the CFP.
I wish you the best of luck in your quest!"
I have not yet confronted the CFO with this knowledge yet, but next week when I call in to check on the status of my application, I will inform them that I know of this order, and if I do not hear from them by October 31st, I will seek legal guidance on getting this order to court so I can FINALLY get an answer.
I hope this helps. Spread the word. Keep this post near the top to help newbies who are frustrated and looking for help.