I sent my application on March 9, 2012. Processing began June 2012, and then we heard nothing. Due to the advice on this forum, we contacted our member of parliament. They contacted us back, within 24 hours and we had an appointment to meet this past Monday! With a few phone calls, he was able to receive information, that we could not get. The following morning after our meeting, my husband received his Sponsorship approval and I received my AIP via email!
If you are having long delays, contact parliament. He was extremely helpful and knowledgable.