"Confirm you are VFR" may mean VMC. Not cancelling IFR as such. By the way, from the video it seems it's a bit hazy which could add to the confusion/stress situation. I think someone forgot to fly the plane... And I still would like to know who was flying and why the apparent switch in duties at that time in the approach.
I used to fly the DH8B (the -8-200) and it does have "a magenta line". However it's interface would make it incredibly complex (and quite a stupid decision I think) to try and do something with it at this stage of flight. Plus there wouldn't be too many benefits from doing something as the other side it's only a circle to land.
I'm very curious to the CRM factor on this one