GTA probably has much more applications than any other parts of Canada, it wouldn't be a surprise if they are slowoctober 2017 surge was very expected and 17k is below what i expected, i applied 11 Oct.
But according to google spreedsheet i check everyday the numbers for November & December 2017 is very low and same numbers as September, August 2017 volume which means the numbers are same level as pre C6.
I see Sydney, NS office is opening packages as many apps as they can but the main probelem is when it arives your local office they need to move as fast as posible especialy those applicants with no travel history and clean from crime background so they dont create unnessary backlog causing unintended stress to department of IRCC.
Some offices in GTA are very slow like mississauga and scarborough for no reason.
IRCC should make sure they clear all October 2017 apps by 2018 March that they deem non routine or requiring Police Check because if u lived whole past 7 yrs and no criminal history not traveled u just should get test invite.
also test date, decision date and outh date should be same date.