The order of debate for legislation in the Senate is determined by the Order Paper and Notice Paper of the Senate. This document lists all bills that could possibly be debated in the Senate that day.
I understand why it can be confusing. The "temporary resident" status/permit is used to describe anyone who is not a landed immigrant, but practically there are different categories of temporary residents. Before C24, I don't recall time spent as visitors being credited... I might be wrong, but I don't see how this can logically be possible. Why do I think so? Just look at all the programs to become eligible for permanent residency. If you are a visitor and want to change status, you have to apply in your country of residence or New York to get a work or study permit... I'm not sure about family sponsorships.
Prior to C24, visitor status were given Pre-PR credit so long as they have evidence of "temporary residency" in Canada, for example, name on lease. Spouses on visitor status awaiting for spousal PR were given credit. Once pre-PR credit is allowed under the new law once passed, those on visitor status along with study and work visa will be able to claim credit. My wife would have been given pre-PR credit under visitor status towards citizenship as told by CIC officials at her PR landing appointment (she landed before C-24). People who came here on visitor status (tourists) usually don't have proof of "temporary residency". Spouses/common law partners on visitor status do.
Prior to C24, visitor status were given Pre-PR credit so long as they have evidence of "temporary residency" in Canada, for example, name on lease. Spouses on visitor status awaiting for spousal PR were given credit. Once pre-PR credit is allowed under the new law once passed, those on visitor status along with study and work visa will be able to claim credit. My wife would have been given pre-PR credit under visitor status towards citizenship as told by CIC officials at her PR landing appointment (she landed before C-24). People who came here on visitor status (tourists) usually don't have proof of "temporary residency". Spouses/common law partners on visitor status do.