When a client goes through a lawyer and obtains the Quebec Selection Certificate, that does not entitle the client to permanent residence status. It does not give the client any status, nor does it authorize the client to come to Canada. Obviously, the person's file is then transferred to the federal government, which conducts security checks and requires the applicant to undergo a medical examination, further to the permanent residence application process. At the end of the day, it is the federal government that decides whether or not to issue a visa. Clearly, it falls under IRPA. Someone cannot just apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate. It is in connection with a file that eventually makes its way to the federal government and is covered under IRPA.
On November 1st, 2010. See this statement in context.