Originally Posted by bushy
To act as PIC it is necessary to hold an ATPL.
That is correct for a RPT operation on a SF34, but not for all charter, aerial work, or private operations.
ICUS is by no means command time, the person undergoing ICUS is not the PIC, they are a co-pilot.
CAR 5.40 1 "(d) the person is the co-pilot of the aircraft;"
ICUS is not command time, and they are not In Command, they are not required to hold an ATPL.
Originally Posted by bushy
But an ATPL and a command endorsement is necessary before ICUS training can commence.
Not at all.
CAR 5.40 is clear that ICUS can be conducted with a person who holds a CPL, MPL, or a certificate of validation.
CAR 5.40 1 "(a) the person holds:
(i) a commercial pilot licence, an air transport pilot licence or a multi-crew pilot (aeroplane) licence; or
(ii) a certificate of validation that has effect as if it were a commercial pilot licence, an air transport pilot licence or a multi-crew pilot (aeroplane) licence;"