New pal/rpal application question for newbie

[stalbertshooter]

This is my first post on here. I've completed the courses a few year ago and have decided to finally get around to applying. I am filling out the application. I got to 1 section (section c - question 16f), where its asks about divorce, job loss etc in past 2 years. In the past 2 years, I have quit a few jobs, terminated from 1 and laid off from my current jobs for apprentice training. I wont be retuning to that job because the company is going out of business. I'm am looking for new work right now. I won't send in my form until I get a new job.

Has anyone answered yes to this? Will that increase the difficulty of my app? I'll attach a detailed explanation letter. If I say no to that question, would that be worse? How easily can my employment history be obtained?

I want to be completely honest and forward. I've already got a few good job opportunities coming up soon.

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Paul

** just a quick bit about me, I moved to Alberta from Ontario 4 years ago. I was in Army cadets for 5 years and the Reserves for 1 year. I'm very familiar in the safe use and handling of all types of firearms.

 

[cheier]

I answered yes to this question. I think this question is primarily asked to help assess whether you were distraught due to your job loss. Answer yes to that question in your interview as well, there will be some followup questions, but as long as the interviewer doesn't suspect a potential issue with your mental well being as a result of job loss, then you *should* be fine. I only highlight the word "should" because my application is still in progress. It has been sitting with the Alberta CFO for at least 2 weeks now, when the interviews were all finished for myself and my references. I'm not sure if it is sitting with the CFO for this long because the office is just simply busy, or if answering yes has opened up extra scrutiny on my application.

I will note that in my case, while I did answer yes and attach a separate letter explaining the situation, my former boss was also listed as a reference. We are good friends and the job loss was a result of closing the Calgary office of the company I was working for. Not sure if listing my boss (and making note of it in the letter) helped or hindered (or whether it really did anything at all). Either way, still waiting for my license to be issued since March 4th.

 

[my_2_cents]

The big reason for the question is to help highlight red flags that you might be homicidal or suicidal over your lost job or divorce. In 99% of cases it should not affect whether you are issued a license, just gives them a clue to ask an extra question or two. If you were to lie on the application though, and they find out, then you are almost guaranteed to never get a PAL.

Your employment history is sometimes readily available with a google search, but if it isn't, it could come up in an interview with your references etc. It is far better to just tell the truth and let them assess you based on that. I don't think there is any requirement to wait until you have a new job to apply, but that is completely up to you.

 

[Sixgunjohnny]

What i was told by cfc when I called, is a yes answer does not mean you wont get your license. It just may delay the process for you.
They need to make sure they cover their a$$ in case someone goes postal, they can say they did all the background stuff.

 

[McCrea]

I answered yes to that question, and the only thing that happened was that I received my licence 1 week later than my girlfriend. And both applications were received at the same time at the RCMP.

 

[..ddubblettapp..]

My instructor said to be completely honest when answering your questionnaire. Incorrect or dishonest answer can lead to lengthy delays and more involved questioning. Don't worry. Just tell them the str8 goods.
Cheers

 

[Fretman]

I answered yes to this question. I think this question is primarily asked to help assess whether you were distraught due to your job loss. Answer yes to that question in your interview as well, there will be some followup questions, but as long as the interviewer doesn't suspect a potential issue with your mental well being as a result of job loss, then you *should* be fine. I only highlight the word "should" because my application is still in progress. It has been sitting with the Alberta CFO for at least 2 weeks now, when the interviews were all finished for myself and my references. I'm not sure if it is sitting with the CFO for this long because the office is just simply busy, or if answering yes has opened up extra scrutiny on my application.
I will note that in my case, while I did answer yes and attach a separate letter explaining the situation, my former boss was also listed as a reference. We are good friends and the job loss was a result of closing the Calgary office of the company I was working for. Not sure if listing my boss (and making note of it in the letter) helped or hindered (or whether it really did anything at all). Either way, still waiting for my license to be issued since March 4th.

Don't hold your breath they received my application Feb 2 and I found out checking the PAL application status that it was approved April 21 and should arrive within two weeks from then. They are very busy right now with guys getting ready for spring, summer and fall with new applications.