I believe that they are clearing all the backlogs of paper applications. Online application is the future, and here to stay.
Just like in the case of PR, even with the existence of paper applications, online is preferred as it moves faster. its easier to validate and no hassle for it to be scanned and sent to the local processing office.
Online applicants may be delayed at the moment, but when it picks up in a few months, it will be faster.