It is a good question to ask why the MoT didn't have the policy in place earlier. The simple answer is that Canada allows the airlines to "self regulate". Yes, it is reactionary, but at least it is a reaction, instead of delaying and saying "let's study the issue". For once, the Canadian government acted fast. It is interesting that some airlines also acted fast without waiting for the regulations (e.g. EasyJet and Norwegian).

You call for careful consideration. I offer that the delay in the implementation of the policy in Canada was the result of complacency and of allowing the airlines to "self regulate". The old chestnut of why do we need to do what the Americans are doing, if no one else does it applies. We're different in canada, blah, blah.

Norwegian Air's boss said that the airline had been studying the issue for some time, but this incident convinced them to act. The flight crews were not too keen on the procedure and Canada's airlines weren't looking for an issue that would antagonize its personnel. Ryanair already had the 2 person policy as did Iberia, Porter and Finnair.