It would be nice if the province would drop the age for young hunters. I don't think it would happen unless we press the issue through the fish & game associations. But don't hold your breath, maybe our kids grand kids will have the chance.
I agree with your standpoint as well. For the same reasons you have stated, and also for "NBhunters" point of adults using their kids for free tags.I'll take the less popular route and say that from a personal perspective I don't think a 12 year old is old enough to be carrying a loaded high power rifle in the woods. Sure adult supervision is what people would say makes it okay but I know a lot of parents that shouldn't be carrying loaded guns in the woods either. Just because somebody else thinks its okay (other jurisdictions) doesn't mean it is. There is more to consider than just the firearms issue. What happens if Dad and son (or daughter) get seperated in the bush, does a 12 year old or a 10 year old have the maturity and presence of mind to make good decisions in that situation? Sure some might but I think we have a duty to protect the majority who wouldn't know how to get themselves found. Whats the right age? I have no idea what that is but you need to be 16 to be considered responsible enough to drive a car and nobody seems to have an issue with that. Is there any less maturity or decision making skills required to have a loaded gun. In the meantime there is absolutely no reason that children of any age can't go out into the woods on a hunting trip with Dad, they can participate in everything except actually shooting at game. Consider it an apprenticeship in woodscraft and enjoy your children's company, I'm not sure what the rush is to put a gun in the hands of a child.
Just because you can pass a written test doesn't mean you have the skills to deal with the situations. The maturity and experience to make good decisions needs to be a big factor.