I learned to fly in Manitoba (Brandon Flying Club) in 1972. Back then it was busy, easy & cheap! Sounds like it is easier getting the Canadian Authorities to recognize your JAR PPL than the other way round; I just (finally got my NPPL SLMG in UK, & what a procedure that has been! They don't use QFE & QNH there, & especially in the Prairies the 1/2 mil VFR charts look decidely empty. Enjoy your flying.